ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Basically, what that means is it stops inflammation and fevers. For the more knowing, it inhibits things called cyclooxegenases. Mainly, cyclooxygenase-2. Cyclooxygenases make things called prostaglandins; they promote pain and inflammation. With less cyclooxygenases, less prostaglandins. The difference is it actually fucking works, unlike other OTC painkillers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Aleve (naproxen). Seriously, 400-600 mg (two-three Advils, its brand name) will euthanize a headache. Not sure how it works for muscle/joint aches, but holy fuck, is it good for headaches. Fuck Tylenol, that shit harms your liver. Not sure how good Aleve works, but it probably sucks. It is worth noting that all NSAIDs except aspirin have issues with raising blood pressure and harming the heart with chronic use, as well as digestive tract problems. This includes ibuprofen. Also, you can make a topical medicine out of ibuprofen gel capsules. Use only one capsule at a time until you find out the right strength. Take one GEL CAPSULE of ibuprofen. Break it with a thumbtack, small-pointed knife, or pair of scissors. Pop the contents into one cup, then take some lotion. Mix it with one kitchen spoon of the lotion. Add 3-4 drops of orange oil to increase absorption through skin. Peace.