As the best over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for tension headaches may vary depending on the individual’s unique symptoms and preferences. However, some commonly recommended OTC treatments for tension headaches include pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as well as muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory medications.
In addition, some people find relief from tension headaches by using relaxation techniques such as massage, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
20 Best Otc For Tension Headache
Product Image | Product Name | Features | Price |
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Excedrin Tension Headache, Caplets – 100 caplets |
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4Head Headache Treatment 3.6g |
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Excedrine Migraine Pain Reliever, Caplets – 200 count |
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Thermal Aid Headache Relief System |
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4Head Headache Treatment 3.6g |
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Excedrin Extra Strength Pain Reliever, Caplets – 200 count |
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Acetaminophen/Aspirin (nsaid) Extra Strength Headache Relief Geltabs – 80ct – Up & Up |
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Hylands Headache, Tablets – 100 tablets |
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Stopain Migraine Topical Pain Relieving Gel, 1.62 fl oz |
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Excedrin PM Headache Pain Reliever/Nighttime Sleep-Aid, Triple Action Formula, Caplets – 24 caplets |
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Equate Extra Strength Headache Relief Caplets, 24 Count – 24 ct |
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Acetaminophen Tension Headache Coated Caplets- 100ct – Up & Up |
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Sudafed Congestion Headache Max Strength 16 | LifeandLooks.comSingle |
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Sudafed Congestion Headache Max Strength 16 | LifeandLooks.comSingle |
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- Soothe headache quickly with these pain reliever caplets
- Formulated without aspirin to reduce neck and shoulder pain
- Get lasting relief from muscle pain with these caplets
- Effective Headache Relief Stick
- A natural way to treat headaches
- For direct application to the forehead
- 100% natural pain relief in minutes
- Treats pain, muscle tension, and light sensitivity
- Includes a cold press eye pack and headache relief cream
- Effective Headache Relief Stick
- A natural way to treat headaches
- For direct application to the forehead
- Suggested Age: 12 Years and Up
- Health Facts: Contains Aspirin, Contains Acetaminophen, Contains Caffeine
- Active Ingredient Strength Value: 250 Milligrams
- Description.
- Ingredients.
- Gelsemium Sempervirens 3X HPUS – relieves headache accompanied by sore neck and shoulders.
- This relieving gel formula helps get relief from migraine pains
- Airless dispenser technology lets you apply the gel without any hassle
- 24 Ct
- Extra Strength
- Headache Relief
- 24 Caplets
- Suggested Age: 12 Years and Up
- Health Facts: Contains Acetaminophen, Aspirin-Free, Contains Caffeine
- Active Ingredient Strength Value: 500 Milligrams
- For oral use only.
- Do not take more medicine than the label tells you to.
- Take with a glass of water. Do not chew.
- For oral use only.
- Do not take more medicine than the label tells you to.
- Take with a glass of water. Do not chew.
1. WellPatch Migraine & Headache Cooling Patch – Drug Free, Lasts Up to 12 Hours, Safe to Use with Medication – Large Patches (4 Packs of 4 Patches), Eac
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Amazon.com – Seller | |
eBay – crewcutter | |
Walmart – Mr. Medical | |
Oneway Beauty |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Product Dimensions | 5 x 1.9 x 7 inches; 8.78 Ounces |
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2. Excedrin Tension Headache, Caplets – 100 caplets
- Soothe headache quickly with these pain reliever caplets
- Formulated without aspirin to reduce neck and shoulder pain
- Get lasting relief from muscle pain with these caplets
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Target |
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Details | |
Form | Caplets |
Aspirin-Free | Yes |
Storage Temperature | 20°-25°C |
3. 4Head Headache Treatment 3.6g
- Effective Headache Relief Stick
- A natural way to treat headaches
- For direct application to the forehead
- Non greasy & colourless
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Amazon | |
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healthpharm.co.uk | |
Britishonlinesupermarket.com |
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4. Excedrine Migraine Pain Reliever, Caplets – 200 count
- 200 Count
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Amazon | |
eBay | |
Walmart | |
CVS Pharmacy |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Product Type | Pain reliever |
Product Form | Caplet |
Storage Temperature | 20°-25°C |
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5. Thermal Aid Headache Relief System
- 100% natural pain relief in minutes
- Treats pain, muscle tension, and light sensitivity
- Includes a cold press eye pack and headache relief cream
- Created by a Board-Certified neurologist
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Amazon | |
eBay – lestorialoves80s | |
Walmart – DHS MED | |
Carewell |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Product Size | XXL |
FSA | Yes |
WHSXX | BC |
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6. 4Head Headache Treatment 3.6g
- Effective Headache Relief Stick
- A natural way to treat headaches
- For direct application to the forehead
- Non greasy & colourless
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Amazon | |
eBay | |
healthpharm.co.uk | |
Britishonlinesupermarket.com |
Product Details
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7. Excedrin Extra Strength Pain Reliever, Caplets – 200 count
- 200 Ct
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Walmart | |
CVS Pharmacy |
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Details | |
Units in Package | 200 |
Indications | Uses: Temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to: headache; a cold; arthritis; muscular aches; toothache; premenstrual & menstrual cramps. |
Directions | General directions: Do not use more than directed. Drink a full glass of water with each dose. Age group directions: Adult and Children 12 Years of Age and Over: Take 2 caplets every 6 hours; not more than 8 caplets in 24 hours. Under 12 Years: Ask a doctor. |
Ingredients | Active Ingredients: In Each Caplet Acetaminophen (250 mg), Aspirin (NSAID*) (250 mg), Caffeine (65 mg). Purpose: Pain Reliever, Pain Reliever, Pain Reliever Aid. Inactive Ingredients: Benzoic Acid, Carnauba Wax, FD&C Blue 1, Hydroxypropylcellulose, Hypromellose, Light Mineral Oil, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Polysorbate 20, Povidone, Propylene Glycol, Simethicone Emulsion, Sorbitan Monolaurate, Stearic Acid, Titanium Dioxide |
Warnings | Reye’s syndrome: Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chicken pox or flu-like symptoms should not use this product. When using this product, if changes in behavior with nausea and vomiting occur, consult a doctor because these symptoms could be an early sign of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness. Allergy alert: Acetaminophen may cause severe skin reactions. Symptoms may include: skin reddening, blisters, rash. If a skin reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away.. Allergy alert: Aspirin may cause a severe allergic reaction which may include: hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock.. Liver warning: This product contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 8 caplets in 24 hours, which is the maximum daily amount, with other drugs containing acetaminophen, 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product.. This product contains an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding. The chance is higher if you are age 60 or older, have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, take a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug, take other drugs containing prescription or nonprescription NSAIDS (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others), have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product, take more or for longer time than directed.. Caffeine warning: The recommended dose of this product contains about as much caffeine as a cup of coffee. Limit the use of caffeine-containing medications, foods, or beverages while taking this product because too much caffeine may cause nervousness, irritability, sleeplessness, and, occasionally, rapid heart beat. Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to acetaminophen, aspirin or any other pain reliever/fever reducer, with any other drug containing acetaminophen (prescription or nonprescription). If you are not sure whether a drug contains acetaminophen, ask a doctor or pharmacist.. Ask a doctor before use if you have liver disease, stomach bleeding warning applies to you, you have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn, you have high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, or kidney disease, you are taking a diuretic, you have asthma.. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking a prescription drug for diabetes, gout, or arthritis, any other drug, or are under a doctor’s care for any serious condition.. Stop use and ask a doctor if: an allergic reaction occurs. Seek medical help right away, you may experience any of the following signs of stomach bleeding: feel faint; vomit blood; have bloody or black stools; have stomach pain that does not get better., ringing in the ears or loss of hearing occurs, painful area is red or swollen, pain gets worse of lasts for more than 10 days, fever gets worse or lasts for more than 3 days, any new symptoms occur. These could be signs of as serious condition.. If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health care professional before use. It is especially important not to use aspirin during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery. Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a poison control center right away. Quick medical attention is critical for adults as well as for children even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms. |
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8. Acetaminophen/Aspirin (nsaid) Extra Strength Headache Relief Geltabs – 80ct – Up & Up
- Suggested Age: 12 Years and Up
- Health Facts: Contains Aspirin, Contains Acetaminophen, Contains Caffeine
- Active Ingredient Strength Value: 250 Milligrams
- Product Warning: Contains Acetaminophen
- Product Form: Gelcap
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Amazon | |
Target |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Active Ingredient Strength Value | 250 Milligrams |
Product Form | Gelcap |
Primary Active Ingredient | Acetaminophen |
Package Quantity | 80 |
Origin | Made in the USA |
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9. Hylands Headache, Tablets – 100 tablets
- Description.
- Ingredients.
- Gelsemium Sempervirens 3X HPUS – relieves headache accompanied by sore neck and shoulders.
- Ipecacuanha 3X HPUS – for symptoms when bones of the skill fee crushed or bruised. Pain extends to teeth and root of tongue.
- Belladonna 6X HPUS – for righ sided throbbing headaches, sometimes similar to migraine.
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Amazon | |
Smallflower.com |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Units in Package | 100 |
Indications | Relief of symptoms of headache due to stress and nervous or sick headache. Headache may be either right or left sided and may extend to the base of the neck. |
Directions | Adults: Dissolve 2-3 tablets under tongue every 4 hours or as needed. Children 6 to 12 Years Old: 1/2 adult dose. |
Ingredients | Iris Versicolor (3X, HPUS), Gelsemium Sempervirens (3X, HPUS), Ipecac (3X, HPUS), Belladonna (6X, HPUS) in a Base of Acacia Gum, Lactose, NF. |
Warnings | Do not use if imprinted cap band is missing or broken. If symptoms persist for more than seven days or worsen, contact a licensed health care professional. As with any drug, if you are pregnant or nursing a baby, seek the advice of a licensed health care professional before using this product. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. In case of accidental overdose, contact a poison control center immediately. |
10. Vanquish Headache Relief Caplets, 100 ct
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Amazon | |
Walgreens.com | |
The Online Drugstore | |
FSAstore.com |
Product Details
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Details | |
Product in inches (LxWxH) | 1.81x 1.81x 4.19 |
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11. Stopain Migraine Topical Pain Relieving Gel, 1.62 fl oz
- This relieving gel formula helps get relief from migraine pains
- Airless dispenser technology lets you apply the gel without any hassle
- Based on homeopathic, this gel is gentle on your skin
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Walmart | |
Bonanza – coco tree store |
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Details | |
Product Type | Pain Relieving Gel |
Weight | 1.62 oz |
Technology | Airless dispenser |
Product Form | Gel |
Dimensions | 1.9″ x 2.3″ x 4.8″ |
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12. Hylands Headache Relief, Tablets – 100 tablets
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Amazon | |
Azure Standard | |
The Vitamin Shoppe | |
Walgreens.com |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Units in Package | 100 |
Indications | Uses: Temporarily relieves headaches . |
Directions | Age group directions: Children Under 12 Years: Consult a physician. Children Under 12 Years: Consult a physician. |
Ingredients | Active Ingredients: Gelsemium Sempervirens 6X HPUS, Gelsemium Sempervirens 6X HPUS, Iris Versicolor 6X HPUS, Iris Versicolor 6X HPUS. Purpose: Headache, HPUS indicates that the active ingredients are in the official Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States., Headache, HPUS indicates that the active ingredients are in the official Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States., Headache., HPUS indicates that the active ingredients are in the official Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States., Headache., HPUS indicates that the active ingredients are in the official Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States. Inactive Ingredients: Acacia Gum, Lactose. |
Warnings | As with any drug, ask a doctor before use if pregnant or breast-feeding. Do not use more than directed. Consult a physician if symptoms persist for more than 7 days or worsen, new symptoms occur.. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. In case of emergency or accidental overdose, contract a medical professional or Poison Control Center immediately. Hyland’s may also be contacted for emergency information about our products 24 hours a day, 7 days per week at (800) 624-9659. |
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13. Excedrin PM Headache Pain Reliever/Nighttime Sleep-Aid, Triple Action Formula, Caplets – 24 caplets
- 24 Ct
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Details | |
Units in Package | 24 |
Indications | Uses: For the temporary relief of occasional headaches and minor aches pains with accompanying sleeplessness. |
Directions | Directions: Do not use more than directed. Do not use in children under 12 years of age. Adults and Children 12 Years of Age and Over: take 2 caplets at bedtime, with a full glass of water; do not take more than 2 caplets in 24 hours, unless directed by a doctor. |
Ingredients | Active Ingredients: In Each Caplet: Acetaminophen 250 mg, Aspirin 250 mg (NSAID), Diphenhydramine Citrate 38 mg. Purpose: Pain reliever, Pain reliever, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug; Nighttime sleep-aid. Inactive Ingredients: Benzoic Acid, Calcium Carbonate, FD&C Blue 1 Aluminum Lake, Hydroxypropyl Cellulose Low Substituted, Hypromellose, Magnesium Stearate, Maltodextrin, Medium-Chain Triglycerides, Polydextrose, Polysorbate 80, Povidone, Pregelatinized Corn Starch, Silicified Microcrystalline Cellulose, Stearic Acid, Talc, Titanium Dioxide, Yellow Iron Oxide, Zinc Stearate. |
Warnings | Warnings: Reye’s syndrome warning: Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chicken pox or flu-like symptoms should not use this product. When using this product, if changes in behavior with nausea and vomiting occur, consult a doctor because these symptoms could be an early sign of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness. Allergy alert: Acetaminophen may cause severe skin reactions. Symptoms may include: skin reddening; blisters; rash If a skin reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away. Aspirin may cause a severe allergic reaction which may include: hives; facial swelling; asthma (wheezing); shock. Liver warning: This product contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if you take; more than 2 caplets in 24 hours, which is the maximum daily amount; with other drugs containing acetaminophen; 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product. Stomach bleeding: This product contains an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding. The chance is higher if you;are age 60 or older; have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems; take a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug; take other drugs containing prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others); have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product; take more or for a longer time than directed. Do not use: if you have ever had an allergic reaction to acetaminophen, aspirin or any other pain reliever/fever reducer; with any other drug containing acetaminophen (prescription or nonprescription) (If you are not sure whether a drug contains acetaminophen, ask a doctor or pharmacist.); with any other product containing diphenhydramine, even one used on skin; in children under 12 years of age. Ask a doctor before use if you have liver disease; stomach bleeding warning applies to you; you have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn; you have high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, or kidney disease; you are taking a diuretic; you have asthma; you have glaucoma; you have a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis; you have trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking; a prescription drug for: ; diabetes; gout; arthritis; any other drug, or are under a doctor’s care for any serious condition; any product that contains aspirin, acetaminophen, or any other pain reliever/fever reducer; sedatives or tranquilizers. When using this product: drowsiness will occur; avoid alcoholic drinks; do not drive a motor vehicle or operate machinery. Stop use and ask a doctor if: an allergic reaction occurs. Seek medical help right away. you experience any of the following signs of stomach bleeding: feel faint; vomit blood; have bloody or black stools; have stomach pain that does not get better; sleeplessness persists continuously for more than 2 weeks. Insomnia may be a symptom of a serious underlying medical illness; pain gets worse or lasts for more than 10 days; painful area is red or swollen; ringing in the ears or a loss of hearing occurs; any.new symptoms occur These could be signs of serious condition. Pregnancy/breast-feeding warning: If preganant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use aspirin during the last three months of pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery. Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. Quick medical attention is critical for adults as well as for children even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms. Other warnings: Tamper–evident bottle. Do not use if inner foil seal imprinted with sealed for your protection is broken or missing. |
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14. Equate Extra Strength Headache Relief Caplets, 24 Count – 24 ct
- Extra Strength
- Headache Relief
- 24 Caplets
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Amazon | |
Walmart | |
kwikiez.com |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Assembled Product Weight | 0.09 lbs |
Assembled Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 1.76 x 3.06 x 1.76 Inches |
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15. Walgreens Tension Headache, Coated Caplets – 100 caplets
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eBay |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Units in Package | 100 |
Indications | Temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to headache; muscular aches. |
Directions | Retain carton for complete product information. Do not use more than directed (see overdose warning). Adults and Children 12 Years and Over: Take 2 caplets every 6 hours. Do not take more than 8 caplets in 24 hours. Children Under 12 Years: Do not use this adult product in children under 12 years of age; this will provide more than the recommended dose (overdose) and may cause liver damage. Store at controlled room temperature 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C). |
Ingredients | Active Ingredients (in Each Caplet): Acetaminophen 500 mg (Formulated with 65 mg Caffeine). Inactive Ingredients: Corn Starch, Crospovidone, D&C Red 27 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue 2 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Yellow 6 Aluminum Lake, Magnesium Stearate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Polyethylene Glycol, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Povidone, Sodium Starch Glycolate, Stearic Acid, Talc, Titanium Dioxide. |
Warnings | Liver Warning: This product contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 8 caplets in 24 hours, which is the maximum daily amount; with other drugs containing acetaminophen; 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product. Caffeine Warning: The recommended dose of this product contains about as much caffeine as a cup of coffee. Limit the use of caffeine-containing medications, foods, or beverages while taking this product because too much caffeine may cause nervousness, irritability, sleeplessness, and, occasionally, rapid heart beat. Do not use with any other drug containing acetaminophen (prescription or nonprescription). If you are not sure whether a drug contains acetaminophen, ask a doctor or pharmacist. Ask a doctor before use if you have liver disease. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking the blood thinning drug warfarin. Stop use and ask a doctor if new symptoms appear; symptoms do not get better or worsen; painful area is red or swollen; pain gets worse or lasts for more than 10 days; fever gets worse or lasts for more than 3 days These could be signs of a serious condition. If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. Keep out of reach of children. Overdose Warning: Taking more than the recommended dose (overdose) may cause liver damage. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (800-222-1222) right away. Quick medical attention is critical for adults as well as for children even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms. Tamper Evident: Do not use if imprinted safety seal under cap is broken or missing. |
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16. Walgreens Tension Headache Relief Caplets – 100 ct
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Walgreens.com |
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17. Acetaminophen Tension Headache Coated Caplets- 100ct – Up & Up
- Suggested Age: 12 Years and Up
- Health Facts: Contains Acetaminophen, Aspirin-Free, Contains Caffeine
- Active Ingredient Strength Value: 500 Milligrams
- Product Warning: Contains Acetaminophen
- Product Form: Caplet
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Target |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Active Ingredient Strength Value | 500 Milligrams |
Product Form | Caplet |
Primary Active Ingredient | Acetaminophen |
Package Quantity | 100 |
Battery | No Battery Used |
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18. Walgreens Headache Relief Gel Tablets – 20 ct
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Instacart |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Product in inches (LxWxH) | 2.87x 1.75x 1.75 |
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19. Sudafed Congestion Headache Max Strength 16 | LifeandLooks.comSingle
- For oral use only.
- Do not take more medicine than the label tells you to.
- Take with a glass of water. Do not chew.
- Do not take more than eight capsules (4 doses) in any 24 hours period.
- Leave at least 4 to 6 hours between doses.
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Pharma Oasis | |
Britishonlinesupermarket.com |
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20. Sudafed Congestion Headache Max Strength 16 | LifeandLooks.comSingle
- For oral use only.
- Do not take more medicine than the label tells you to.
- Take with a glass of water. Do not chew.
- Do not take more than eight capsules (4 doses) in any 24 hours period.
- Leave at least 4 to 6 hours between doses.
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Pharma Oasis | |
Britishonlinesupermarket.com |
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Conclusion
As the best over-the-counter medication for tension headaches may vary depending on the individual’s unique situation and preferences. However, some common options include ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin.
If over-the-counter medications do not provide relief, it is important to see a doctor, as tension headaches can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.