Multi-Organ Transplant

Transplant Pharmacy - Managing Your Medications

What medications are safe to take for pain?

If you need to take medication for pain or headache, acetaminophen (Tylenol^®) is usually safe to take. Do not take ASA (aspirin) or ibuprofen (Advil^®, Motrin^®) as these products can cause stomach irritation and increase your risk of bleeding. They may also increase your risk of kidney problems. Check labels carefully as some pain relief products contain a mix of aspirin with other drugs (e.g. Alka Seltzer^®, Bufferin^®, Robaxisal^®, Excedrin^®). When in doubt, ask your pharmacist if the product contains aspirin. One exception to this is once daily, low-dose “baby” aspirin – this product is safe to use on the advice of your doctor.

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