Which Pain Reliever Is Safest for Older Adults?
- Written by A.G. for Age Well Kit
- Jun 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 16
Insights from a Geriatric Doctor
Why I'm Sharing This
I tend to think twice before taking any medication. As a highly sensitive person (or HSP), I react strongly to drugs and supplements. I once ended up in the hospital with a stomach ulcer after taking ibuprofen without food for two days in a row. Since then, I’ve only used it when strictly necessary and when inflammation is clearly involved, since ibuprofen is more effective for that.
Lately I’d heard that acetaminophen might be safer as we age, but it was this video by Better Health While Aging that finally clarified the risks, as it explains the safest pain reliever for older adults.
Here is a short summary of the video and a cheat sheet with the points I found most useful. The video is embedded at the bottom of the page so you can watch it without leaving this site. Below that, you'll find links to related articles.
Video Summary
This video by Better Health While Aging, featuring Dr. Leslie Kernisan, a board-certified geriatrician, discusses the safest over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers for older adults. She explains the pros and cons of acetaminophen (Tylenol), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin.
The video covers how these drugs affect the liver, kidneys, and cardiovascular system, and offers guidance on choosing the safest option for long-term or occasional use. Dr. Kernisan also addresses topical treatments, the risks of "PM" painkillers, and the evolving role of cannabinoids. She concludes with general pain management tips, with an emphasis on non-drug therapies.
Cheat Sheet Which Pain Reliever Is Safest for Older Adults?
based on the video by Better Health While Aging
1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Safer for long-term use if under 3,000 mg/day
Avoid if liver disease or heavy alcohol use
Watch for hidden doses in combo meds
2. NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
More effective for inflammation
Higher risk: bleeding, kidney strain, fluid retention, blood pressure rise, heart attacks
Occasional use only; avoid daily use
Topical NSAIDs (e.g., diclofenac gel) are safer
3. Aspirin
Not for regular pain relief
No longer recommended for primary prevention
Still used for secondary prevention (post-stroke or heart attack)
4. Topical Options
Safer for localized pain
Includes diclofenac gel, menthol, salicylates, capsaicin
5. PM Painkillers
Contain anticholinergics like Benadryl
Harmful to memory and cognition in older adults
6. Cannabinoids (CBD/THC)
May help with pain/sleep
Watch for dizziness, sedation, drug interactions
Potency/purity vary
7. General Tips
Report pain to your provider
Consider physical therapy, acupuncture, massage, CBT
Don’t aim for zero pain. Aim for better, manageable comfort
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may include curated or personal content. It is not medical advice. Please consult a licensed provider before making health decisions.
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Video by Better Health While Aging. All rights belong to the original creator.
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