The pharmodynamics, pharmokinetics,
and chemistry of over the counter pain killers.
CHM 4930
CP107
Over the counter painkillers are usually taken at the first sign of a
headache or pain. When choosing a
painkiller, there are hundreds of brands available, but these brands usually
have one of three active ingredients with varying drug amount per brand. The active ingredient in most painkillers on
the market is Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, or Acetylsalicylic Acid. Acetylsalicylic Acid is commonly known as
aspirin and is found products such as Alka-Seltzer and Bayer. Ibuprofen is
commonly found in painkillers such as Advil and Motrin. Finally, Acetaminophen
is the active ingredient found in products such as Tylenol and Percogesic.
There are several products, which combine two of the three active ingredients
mentioned, such as Midol and Excedrin.
An in depth look into the chemistry, pharmodynamics, and the
pharmokinetics of each drug, including side effects and possible long term
effects associated which each drug.