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Best Over The Counter Medicine For Neck Pain (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution to relieve neck pain, over the counter medicine may be a great option for you. However, before jumping into buying any products, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it’s important to identify the cause of your neck pain, as some products may be more effective for certain types of pain. Secondly, consider any allergies or medications you may be taking, as some over the counter medicines may interact with them. Lastly, always read the label and follow the directions carefully to ensure proper usage and avoid any potential side effects.

Are you tired of constantly dealing with neck pain and searching for a solution that works? Have you considered trying over the counter medicine, but aren’t sure where to start? Do you want to make an informed decision before purchasing any products? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then keep reading. We’ve compiled some helpful tips and factors to keep in mind when browsing over the counter medicine for neck pain. Whether you’re looking for a topical cream or an oral medication, we’ve got you covered.

10 Best Over The Counter Medicine For Neck Pain

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for providing powerful topical relief for arthritis pain without the need for a prescription.
2
This product is ideal for providing non-addictive pain relief support using natural ingredients such as curcumin and boswellia.
3
This supplement is ideal for relieving sciatic nerve pain in the lower lumbar, hip, thigh, leg, and foot.
4
The product is ideal for the treatment of neck, upper back, and headache pain caused by prolonged use of smartphones and computers.
5
The product is ideal for relieving pain and discomfort associated with various neck conditions and degeneration of discs.
6
The product is ideal for women who want to support their urinary tract health and prevent UTIs.
7
This product is ideal for improving memory and supporting healthy brain function.
8
The product is ideal for providing pain relief to the back, neck, sciatica, and nerves through muscle stimulation.
9
It is ideal for providing relief from joint and muscle pain in various areas such as the back, neck, hands, and feet.
10
The product is ideal for providing pain relief to the neck and shoulders with various heat settings and timers.
The product is ideal for providing powerful topical relief for arthritis pain without the need for a prescription.
This product is ideal for providing non-addictive pain relief support using natural ingredients such as curcumin and boswellia.
This supplement is ideal for relieving sciatic nerve pain in the lower lumbar, hip, thigh, leg, and foot.
The product is ideal for the treatment of neck, upper back, and headache pain caused by prolonged use of smartphones and computers.
The product is ideal for relieving pain and discomfort associated with various neck conditions and degeneration of discs.
The product is ideal for women who want to support their urinary tract health and prevent UTIs.
This product is ideal for improving memory and supporting healthy brain function.
The product is ideal for providing pain relief to the back, neck, sciatica, and nerves through muscle stimulation.
It is ideal for providing relief from joint and muscle pain in various areas such as the back, neck, hands, and feet.
The product is ideal for providing pain relief to the neck and shoulders with various heat settings and timers.

1. Powerful Arthritis Pain Relief Gel – Voltaren (2-Pack)

The Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is an effective solution for those who are looking for powerful topical pain relief. It comes with two 3.5 oz/1 g tubes that will help reduce stiffness, aches and pains that arise due to arthritis. The product is clinically proven to relieve arthritis pain and improve mobility, making it a prescription strength arthritis pain relief product.

This nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel is the number one doctor recommended topical pain relief brand that provides an alternative to pills. It combines the benefits of an arthritis cream and gel for arthritis pain management. The Diclofenac Sodium Topical Gel penetrates deep to attack arthritis pain directly at the source of inflammation, treating arthritis pain rather than just masking it. With Voltaren, you can experience long-lasting relief from arthritis pain and get back to your daily activities without any discomfort.

Pros

  • Number one doctor recommended topical pain relief brand
  • Clinically proven to relieve arthritis pain
  • Improves mobility and reduces stiffness, aches, and pains
  • Provides long-lasting relief from arthritis pain
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel that treats arthritis pain rather than just masking it

2. Curaminx: Powerful Vegan Pain Relief Supplement

Curamin Extra Strength is a safe and effective solution for reducing occasional muscle pain caused by exercise or overuse. It is a non-addictive pain-reliever that does not damage the kidney, liver, or intestine. The product is backed by over 50 published studies and contains BCM-95/Curcugreen curcumin, which is the most clinically studied and enhanced absorption curcumin in the world. This curcumin consists of turmeric essential oil with ar-turmerone and is better absorbed than turmeric alone. Curamin Extra Strength is the #1 selling brand, with millions of bottles sold worldwide for its proven efficacy. It combines four powerful ingredients- clinically proven curcumin and boswellia with DLPA and nattokinase, that work together to provide safe and effective pain relief. All Terry Naturally products, including Curamin Extra Strength, are manufactured to strict Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) set by the FDA and are produced with the highest quality ingredients.

If you are looking for a safe and effective pain reliever, Curamin Extra Strength is the perfect solution. It is non-addictive and does not harm the vital organs, making it a safe option for long-term use. The product is backed by over 50 published studies and contains BCM-95/Curcugreen curcumin, which is the most clinically studied and enhanced absorption curcumin in the world. Curamin Extra Strength is a combination of four powerful ingredients that work together to provide pain relief. The product is manufactured to strict Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), ensuring that you get the highest quality ingredients. Millions of satisfied customers worldwide use Curamin Extra Strength, making it the #1 selling brand in the market.

Pros

  • Safe and effective pain relief
  • Non-addictive formula
  • Does not cause harm to vital organs
  • Backed by over 50 published studies
  • Contains BCM-95/Curcugreen curcumin which is clinically studied and better absorbed than turmeric
  • Manufactured to strict Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)
  • Combines four powerful ingredients for maximum efficacy

3. Sciatica Relief With Ala Vitamins – 10x Strength

Sciaticare is a doctor and neurologist recommended supplement that provides soothing comfort from the occasional jolting nerve pain or muscle weakness from your lower back to your buttocks and down to your leg, feet and toes. This supplement contains a powerful combination of non-chemical nutrients that support your lower lumbar nerves and soothe the discomfort of cramps and sharp nerve pain. The unique proprietary blend of powerful synergistic critical ingredients including R-ALA (10X more powerful than synthetic ALA), Acetyl L-Carnitine HCL, and Benfotiamine makes it one of the most comprehensive and potent nerve support formulas available today. Simply take 2 capsules 2x a day with meals. Capsule contents can be sprinkled on food if you prefer. Sciaticare is absolutely unique and is 10x stronger and more effective than the common, cheaper and synthetic form of Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) used in almost all other sciatic nerve supplement brands. There are no side effects as the formula is the best sciatic intensive soothing products with no added milk, eggs, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, or ingredients from these sources. Be assured of no reactions if you are sensitive to these foods. Sciaticare capsules work to effectively soothe the occasional burning, shooting, numbing pain felt in the lower back, buttocks, legs, and calves. If you're not satisfied with this product, Sciaticare offers a 100% money-back guarantee.

Pros

  • Doctor and neurologist recommended supplement for sciatic nerve occasional pain
  • Provides soothing comfort from the occasional jolting nerve pain or muscle weakness
  • Powerful combination of non-chemical nutrients that support your lower lumbar nerves and soothe the discomfort of cramps and sharp nerve pain
  • Unique proprietary blend of powerful synergistic critical ingredients including R-ALA (10X more powerful than synthetic ALA), Acetyl L-Carnitine HCL, and Benfotiamine makes it one of the most comprehensive and potent nerve support formulas available today
  • No added milk, eggs, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, or ingredients from these sources
  • Effective in soothing the occasional burning, shooting, numbing pain felt in the lower back, buttocks, legs, and calves
  • 100% money-back guarantee

4. Revitalize: Neck, Back, And Head Pain Relief Program

The Backpod is a highly accurate and effective device that has helped thousands of people improve their posture and breathe easier. It is a direct, at-home treatment for Costochondritis, Tietze’s Syndrome, and other thoracic upper spine and back rib issues. Developed by professional physiotherapists, this super strong and durable device allows for the direct flex of specific (locked) back rib and spinal joints. It can be seen as yoga for your back, helping to remobilize tight areas.

Regular, gradual use of The Backpod can help treat pain resulting from prolonged use of smartphones and computers, commonly referred to as iHunch. It gently flexes the upper back and neck area, releasing tightness and improving mobility. Using The Backpod regularly can also help pull a hunched spine back towards a pain-free perfect posture position, allowing you to breathe easier and feel the release through your chest and ribcage.

The Backpod is a one-time investment that can save you money on expensive professional manipulation. It is designed to last as long as you require it and is convenient to use at your own home or work, whenever you need it. A full user guide is provided to ensure the very best results. If you need any support, the team behind the Backpod is always available to help.

In addition, the Backpod comes with a 100% money-back guarantee, so you can be confident in the quality of the product and the program that comes with it.

Pros

  • Highly accurate and effective
  • Direct, at-home treatment for various thoracic upper spine and back rib issues
  • Super strong and durable device
  • Helps treat pain resulting from prolonged use of smartphones and computers
  • Improves posture and mobility of the upper back and neck area
  • One-time investment that can save money on professional manipulation
  • Full user guide provided
  • Direct support available from the team behind the Backpod
  • Comes with a 100% money-back guarantee

5. Cervical Traction Kit For Ultimate Neck Comfort.

The Home Cervical Traction System is an excellent product to relieve neck pain in the comfort of one's own home. It is a natural pain reliever for various back problems such as degenerative disc disease, cervicalgia, herniated discs, bulging discs, radiculopathies, etc. This patented product comes with a contouring adjustable neck cradle that provides a custom fit and secures the neck while providing cervical traction. The product is comfortable and easy to use. It provides immediate results, especially for those who have compression of the cervical spine. ComforTrac provides decompression that can help eliminate pain from the very first use. The product is fully adjustable and can use up to 50 lbs of force with a patented quick release pump. The angle of incline can be easily adjusted to 10, 15, and 20 degrees.

The Home Cervical Traction System is an excellent product to use for anyone suffering from neck pain. It is a drug-free pain reliever that provides immediate results. The product is comfortable and easy to use. It comes with a contouring adjustable neck cradle that provides a custom fit and secures the neck while providing cervical traction. The product is fully adjustable and can use up to 50 lbs of force with a patented quick release pump. The angle of incline can be easily adjusted to 10, 15, and 20 degrees. It is a natural pain reliever for various back problems such as degenerative disc disease, cervicalgia, herniated discs, bulging discs, radiculopathies, etc.

The Home Cervical Traction System is a patented product that provides a natural pain reliever for various back problems. It is an excellent product to relieve neck pain in the comfort of one's own home. It comes with a contouring adjustable neck cradle that provides a custom fit and secures the neck while providing cervical traction. The product is fully adjustable and can use up to 50 lbs of force with a patented quick release pump. The angle of incline can be easily adjusted to 10, 15, and 20 degrees. The product is comfortable and easy to use, and it provides immediate results, especially for those who have compression of the cervical spine.

Pros

  • Natural pain reliever for various back problems
  • Comfortable and easy to use
  • Immediate results, especially for those with compression of the cervical spine
  • Patented product with contouring adjustable neck cradle for custom fit and cervical traction
  • Fully adjustable with up to 50 lbs of force using a patented quick release pump

6. Uti-Support: Cranberry Capsules For Women

The TheraCran One cranberry supplement has been selected as the Top Pick by ConsumerLab among other cranberry supplements. It has been found to contain the highest level of PACs with the lowest cost per dose of all supplements tested. The supplement is designed to help keep urinary tract infections (UTI's) at bay with just one capsule per day.

The formula of TheraCran One is evidence-based and contains 36mg of PACs per capsule. This is the amount that has been shown in scientific studies to promote urinary tract health. PACs are naturally occurring compounds in cranberries, and according to a new FDA qualified health claim, limited scientific evidence shows that by consuming 500mg of a cranberry supplement per day, healthy women may reduce their risk of recurrent UTI.

TheraCran One is made from whole cranberry extract, which includes cranberry juice, flesh, skins, and seeds. This provides a balanced spectrum of PACs and other active cranberry phytochemicals that work together for optimal effectiveness. The supplement is the only cranberry supplement that is independently tested and certified (NSF International) in the USA for content accuracy, freedom of contaminants, and PAC content.

The supplement is manufactured in the USA in a cGMP compliant facility. It is physician-formulated and backed by Theralogix’ Medical Advisory Board.

Pros

  • Contains the highest level of PACs with the lowest cost per dose of all supplements tested
  • Evidence-based formula and dosing
  • Made from whole cranberry extract for optimal effectiveness
  • The only cranberry supplement that is independently tested and certified for content accuracy, freedom of contaminants, and PAC content
  • Manufactured in the USA in a cGMP compliant facility
  • Backed by Theralogix’ Medical Advisory Board

7. Memory Boost Pro: Brain Health & Function Support

Prevagen is a dietary supplement that has undergone extensive safety testing and demonstrated the ability to improve cognitive function in subgroups of participants who were cognitively normal or mildly impaired. The active ingredient in Prevagen is Apoaequorin, which is unique and has been proven safe by third-party experts. The supplement comes in an easy-to-swallow capsule and is recommended to be taken once a day in the morning, with or without food, for best results. A 7-day pill minder is also included to help you stay organized.

In a double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, Prevagen was shown to improve cognitive function in adults over 40 years old who took one capsule daily for 90 days. The group taking Prevagen showed improvement according to computer-based testing. Additionally, Prevagen was the #1 recommended Memory Support brand in a 2022-2023 survey of pharmacists who recommend memory support products.

Made in the USA, Prevagen Extra Strength is BPA free and features letters and braille for each day of the week.

Pros

  • Improves cognitive function in subgroups of participants who were cognitively normal or mildly impaired
  • The active ingredient, Apoaequorin, has undergone extensive safety testing and is proven safe by third-party experts
  • Comes in an easy-to-swallow capsule and is recommended to be taken once a day in the morning, with or without food, for best results
  • Includes a 7-day pill minder to help you stay organized
  • Made in the USA and BPA free, with letters and braille for each day of the week

8. Digital Muscle Stimulator For Pain Relief

The TENS 7000 TENS unit is a versatile and effective device that can provide prescription strength pain relief, act as a muscle massager or shoulder massager, provide carpal tunnel relief, and act as a muscle relaxer for muscle recovery. With over 1 million devices sold, it is a consumer favorite and a leader in physical therapy equipment. It has been a favorite among medical professionals since 2008 for treating back pain, neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, shoulder, knee, elbow, leg and foot pain. The device comes with multiple TENS therapy modes that provide immediate muscle pain relief. The pulse amplitude can be adjusted from 0-100mA in 10mA increments, which is controlled by the respective knobs located at the top of the device for both channels.

The TENS 7000 TENS unit is a dual-channel device that provides TENS therapy, muscle stimulation, nerve stimulation, and electric massage. It has four TENS unit pads (electrodes) that can be controlled independently for targeted pain relief. The device comes with a user manual and guide that should be referred to before use. The treatment is timed with the device, and it will automatically shut off after a certain time period within the setup. This TENS machine is an electrotherapy machine that is a class leader in electric massagers for muscles.

Pros

  • Provides prescription strength pain relief
  • Acts as a muscle massager or shoulder massager
  • Provides carpal tunnel relief
  • Acts as a muscle relaxer for muscle recovery
  • Comes with multiple TENS therapy modes that provide immediate muscle pain relief
  • Adjustable pulse amplitude from 0-100mA in 10mA increments for both channels
  • Dual-channel device that provides TENS therapy, muscle stimulation, nerve stimulation, and electric massage
  • Four TENS unit pads (electrodes) can be controlled independently for targeted pain relief
  • Comes with a user manual and guide

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for everyone
  • – Cannot be used with just one electrode

9. Joint & Muscle Therapy Cream For Recovery

Experience effective relief from joint and muscle discomfort with Penetrex, the whole-body therapy cream trusted by over 2 million sufferers. It offers a unique and proprietary blend of natural ingredients that leverages the power of arnica, vitamin B6, and MSM to penetrate deeply into the source of the problem and eliminate any discomfort.

Unlike other relief products, Penetrex provides a premium experience in muscle recovery without any burn, freeze, or strong odor, making it the perfect non-greasy, non-sticky, and non-staining paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan soothing cream.

See why so many people trust Penetrex and get back to doing the things you love without the worry of joint and muscle discomfort. Penetrex can be applied to the back, neck, knee, hand, foot, and more. It can be used on its own or in combination with other therapies such as heating pads, ice packs, massagers, and supplements. Apply Penetrex 3-4 times per day for 7-10 days and then use as needed.

Pros

  • Penetrex offers effective relief from joint and muscle discomfort.
  • It has a proprietary blend of natural ingredients that penetrate deeply to eliminate discomfort at the source.
  • It is a non-greasy, non-sticky, and non-staining paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan soothing cream.
  • It can be used on its own or with other therapies such as heating pads, ice packs, massagers, and supplements.

10. Weighted Neck Heat: Soothe Pain, Relax Muscles

The NIUONSIX Weighted Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad is a great investment for those who are experiencing neck, shoulder, and upper back pain. It is made with pure stone seed as the weighting material, which helps it mold to the body more readily. The ergonomic design, with a 2 lb weight load, offers deeper relaxation, stress relief, and makes you feel revitalized.

This heating pad for neck and shoulders has a 6-level temperature setting, ranging from 40℃/104℉ to 60℃/140℉, to meet your various needs from simple relaxation to pain relief. The fast heating and even heat distribution function offer rapid soothing and stay in a comfortable temperature range. The lower neck part has heating coils, and you can fold down the upper part of the collar to feel the heat more closely if needed.

For safer, convenient, and durable use, the built-in chip intelligent controller has a 4-level timer with auto-off settings of 0.5H/1H/1.5H/2H. The countdown timer makes it easy and convenient to operate and gives you more relief over the heating to keep you relaxed during use. You can move freely in your favorite spot with the 7ft wire neck shoulder heating pad, and it works well as a home/office accessory for leisure time or to cover your cold body needs.

This heating pad for back pain relief is made of supersoft quilted mink velvet, which makes it comfortable to use. The excellent sewing technology protects the internal weighting seeds from falling out, making it machine washable and easy to clean. You can choose between dry/moist heating options. This large electric heating neck shoulder wrap fits neck and shoulders better than ordinary rectangle large heating pads, making it the perfect fit for your needs.

The shoulder heating pad's size is perfect for both men and women, and the back shoulder blade can be extended by 9 inches after wearing the heat pad, helping you relieve neck, shoulder, and back pain greatly. This weighted neck heating pad is also a good gift idea for mom and dad on Mother's Day and Father's Day, and as Christmas and birthday gifts for women and men.

Pros

  • Made with pure stone seed as the weighting material, which helps it mold to the body more readily
  • Ergonomic design with a 2 lb weight load offers deeper relaxation, stress relief, and makes you feel revitalized
  • 6-level temperature setting, ranging from 40℃/104℉ to 60℃/140℉, to meet your various needs from simple relaxation to pain relief
  • Fast heating and even heat distribution function offer rapid soothing and stay in a comfortable temperature range
  • Built-in chip intelligent controller with a 4-level timer and auto-off settings of 0.5H/1H/1.5H/2H for safer, convenient, and durable use
  • 7ft wire neck shoulder heating pad allows you to move freely in your favorite spot
  • Made of supersoft quilted mink velvet, which makes it comfortable to use
  • Excellent sewing technology protects the internal weighting seeds from falling out, making it machine washable and easy to clean
  • Large electric heating neck shoulder wrap fits neck and shoulders better than ordinary rectangle large heating pads
  • Good gift idea for mom and dad on Mother's Day and Father's Day, and as Christmas and birthday gifts for women and men

Cons

  • – None

Best Over The Counter Medicine For Neck Pain FAQs

Are there any potential side effects of over the counter medicines for neck pain?

Yes, there can be potential side effects of over the counter medicines for neck pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can cause stomach problems like ulcers and bleeding, especially if taken in high doses or for a prolonged period of time. Acetaminophen, another common pain reliever, can cause liver damage if taken in excessive amounts. Muscle relaxants like cyclobenzaprine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Topical pain relievers like lidocaine can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

It is important to read the labels and instructions carefully before taking any medication, and to follow the recommended dosage. It is also recommended to talk to a healthcare professional before taking any new medication, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. In some cases, over the counter medications may not be effective for neck pain and a healthcare professional may need to prescribe a stronger medication or recommend other treatments.

Can over the counter medicines be used in combination with other treatments for neck pain?

Yes, over the counter medicines can be used in combination with other treatments for neck pain. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication, especially if you are already on other treatments for neck pain. Over the counter medicines such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. These medications can be used in combination with other treatments such as physical therapy, massage therapy, and chiropractic care. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not to exceed the maximum daily limit. Additionally, it is important to monitor any potential side effects and to discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur. Ultimately, a healthcare professional can help determine the most effective combination of treatments for your specific case of neck pain.

How do over the counter medications for neck pain work?

Over the counter medications for neck pain work in different ways depending on the type of medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen reduce pain and inflammation by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals produced by the body that cause pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen, on the other hand, is a pain reliever that works by blocking the pain signals that are sent to the brain. Topical creams and ointments containing menthol, capsaicin or lidocaine may also be used to provide temporary relief from neck pain. They work by numbing the skin or reducing the sensation of pain. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and consult with a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens. Over the counter medications for neck pain may provide temporary relief, but it is important to address the underlying cause of the pain to prevent it from becoming chronic.

What are the most effective over the counter medicines for neck pain?

Neck pain is a common problem that many people experience at some point in their lives. While prescription medications are available, there are also several over-the-counter options that can be effective in treating neck pain. The most common over-the-counter medications for neck pain are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen. These medications help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain in the neck area.

Acetaminophen is another over-the-counter medication that can be effective in treating mild to moderate neck pain. Unlike NSAIDs, acetaminophen does not reduce inflammation but works to relieve pain.

Topical pain relievers such as creams, gels, and patches containing capsaicin, menthol, or lidocaine can also provide relief from neck pain. These products work by numbing the pain receptors in the skin, providing temporary pain relief.

It's important to note that over-the-counter medications should be used as directed and should not be relied on as a long-term solution for neck pain. If your neck pain persists or becomes severe, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

What is the recommended dosage and frequency of over the counter medicines for neck pain?

When it comes to over the counter medicines for neck pain, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and frequency to avoid any potential risks or side effects. The dosage and frequency vary depending on the active ingredient and the specific product.

For example, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is commonly used for mild to moderate neck pain, and the recommended dosage for adults is 325-1000 mg every 4-6 hours, with a maximum daily dose of 4 grams. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) can also be effective for neck pain and are usually taken every 6-8 hours as needed.

It is important to read and follow the instructions on the label carefully, as some products may have different dosages or precautions. If you are unsure about the appropriate dosage or frequency for your neck pain, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication. Additionally, it is important to note that overuse of over the counter pain medication can lead to negative side effects, so it is important to use them only as directed.

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