Tylenol, Advil, or Aspirin? What’s Safest for Older Adults

0 Views • 08/17/25

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Sign up for Better Health While Aging’s newsletter to receive expert, practical health advice from board-certified geriatrician Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH.: https://betterhealthwhileaging.....net/for-older-adult

If you (or your older loved ones) often take Tylenol, Advil, or aspirin for aches and pains, it’s essential to know which options are actually safe—and which could cause harm. Read more: https://betterhealthwhileaging.....net/safest-otc-pain

In this episode of Better Health While Aging, board-certified geriatrician Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH, breaks down what every older adult needs to know about over-the-counter painkillers. She explains how common medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen (Advil, Aleve) affect aging bodies—and why some can increase the risk of bleeding, kidney problems, or stomach issues.

You’ll also learn:
The safest pain relief option for most older adults
When to avoid NSAIDs—and what to use instead
What to know about aspirin for pain and for prevention
Why topical creams and non-drug treatments can be a great alternative
What we know (and don’t know) about cannabinoids for pain
How to talk with doctors about better, safer pain management

If you’re dealing with arthritis, back pain, or chronic discomfort, this episode will help you make safer, more informed choices—and reduce the risk of serious side effects.

#OTCpainrelief #PainManagementSeniors #HelpingOlderParents #TylenolVsAdvil #SeniorHealthTips #BetterHealthForAging

Dr. Kernisan discusses common over the counter drugs like acetaminophen, also known as Tylenol, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen. She covers side effects of acetaminophen and other painkillers, offering senior care advice for older adults. This video offers health tips on pain management.

Find related resources here: https://betterhealthwhileaging.....net/podcast/tylenol

Chapters :
00:00 Introduction to Over-the-Counter Painkillers for Older Adults
02:30 What to know about acetaminophen (Tylenol)
07:04 What to know about NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil)
12:02 Tylenol vs Advil (or Aleve)
13:16 What to know about aspirin
17:21 Why topical OTC painkillers are a good option
17:22 Tips on safer use of OTC pain meds
19:44 What to know about cannabinoids
22:18 Tips for pain management in general
24:25 Recap

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Disclaimer: The material on the Better Health While Aging Youtube channel, including any exchanges in the comments section, is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Kernisan may make regarding an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a physician-patient relationship between Dr. Kernisan and a caregiver, or care recipient. None of Dr. Kernisan’s website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Please see the full disclaimer for more information: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/disclaimer/

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