Pain Control Instructions
Using a combination of Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen is the most effective method of pain relief. Both are available over the counter at any pharmacy. Studies have shown this combination is more effective than when using either medication alone and they have been proven more effective than narcotic pain medications such as Oxycodone, Hydrocodone and Codeine.
Ibuprofen 200mg (Motrin, Advil) Take 600mg (3 tablets) every 6 hours. Max 2400mg/24hr
Acetaminophen Extra Strength 500mg (Tylenol) Take 1000mg (2 tablets) every 6 hours. Max 4000mg/24hr
Staggering the doses is recommended. That is, starting with a 600mg dose of Ibuprofen, followed 3 hours later by a 1000mg dose of Acetaminophen, followed 3 hours later by a 600mg dose of Ibuprofen, and so on. Using this dosing schedule will maximize the amount of over the counter pain medication you can safely take in a day.
If you have also been prescribed a narcotic pain medication, it should be used only for breakthrough pain. That is, pain not controlled by the above dosing schedule. WARNING: These narcotic medications also contain Acetaminophen. In order to stay under the daily maximum dosage for Acetaminophen it is advised to remove one tablet of Acetaminophen from the dosing regimen for every narcotic pain pill taken.
If you have been advised by your physician to avoid Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen for medical reasons, allergy or interaction with other medications, please do not follow this dosing schedule. Contact your medical provider for an alternative recommendation.