Analgesics and Pain Medications

Most OTC pain meds are safe to fly as long as the underlying condition that the pilot or ATC controller is acceptable. Sometimes mild pain can be a distraction, so non-sedating analgesics can actually enhance safety.

CAUTION: Occasionally OTC meds are combined with a sedating antihistamine, which can cause drowsiness. If the product you are using contains an antihistamine, it is probably not safe to fly see our antihistamine page.

Analgesics can be though of in 2 large categories. NSAIDS and Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen (paracetamol outside the U.S.) is a common over-the-counter drug used as an analgesic (pain reliever) for mild-to-moderate pain (headaches, muscle aches) and an antipyretic (fever reducer), found in many products like Tylenol. It is safe for aviators as long as the underlying condition is not limiting, but it's crucial to follow dosing to prevent serious liver damage from Tylenol especially when mixing with alcohol or other meds. Acetaminophen works by blocking pain signals in the central nervous system and reducing fever, though it lacks significant anti-inflammatory effects like NSAIDs. NSAIDs include Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naprosyn and many similar products. This section discusses:
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Caffeine (often included in headache remedies such as Excedrin)
• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and analgesics
• Additional options for headaches
• Topical rubs
• Pain patches

While lidocaine pain relief remedies may help to temporarily block nerve signals, numbing the area for conditions like minor cuts, sunburns, insect bites, and muscle pain, available over-the-counter (OTC) in creams, patches, sprays (e.g., Salonpas, Aspercreme), or as prescription-strength options for nerve pain (shingles, neuropathy) must be used with caution. Some aviators have reported acutely appearing allergic reactions and in severe cases of adverse reaction, seizures can occur. In OTC versions these remedies can be safe and effective for pilots. They work by stopping pain signals at nerve endings, offering fast, numbing relief for skin irritations and deeper nerve pain when used as directed. Jelly and viscous solutions are more likely to cause central nervous system problems or sever allergies, but those preparations are prescription only.

CAUTION: The FAA adds a precaution about lidocaine (a topical anesthetic) creams and patches. With lidocaine application, avoid getting on hands or open wounds as this can drop blood pressure or absorb faster.