Senior citizen safety with pain medications

Leah Androski ECB Publishing, Inc. There are currently 57.8 million adults 65 years old and older in the United States, with 31.9 million of those being women and 25.9 million men. Here are a list of common pain relief medicines and the safety concerns they may raise for seniors. The list will also include any side effects that may happen due to a prolonged use of the medication. Pain Relief Medicines Acetaminophen is an ingredient in more than 600 medicines. Can be found in cough suppressants, cold and allergy medicines and sleep aids. Commonly used to relieve headaches, muscle aches and pain from sinus pressure, reduces fever and promotes sleep. Potential safety concerns: If ove