How To Treat Insect & Spider Bites

Take Over-The-Counter Pain Medication

Bites from certain insects such as scorpions, hornets, and honeybees can cause significant pain for some patients, and it may be necessary to take over-the-counter pain medication in these instances. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen are generally safe and effective over-the-counter pain relievers for the majority of individuals, and acetylsalicylic acid is typically appropriate for patients nineteen years old or older. Individuals who have cardiovascular, kidney, or liver issues should ask their healthcare providers about which over-the-counter medications are safe for them to use, and patients who have diabetes should also consult their doctors before taking any over-the-counter drugs. Individuals taking ibuprofen could experience nausea, vomiting, an upset stomach, diarrhea, and dizziness. Since this medication may raise blood pressure, patients who have hypertension might need to use another pain reliever instead, and doctors advise all patients using ibuprofen to monitor their blood pressure at home. Acetaminophen may cause nausea and vomiting, and some patients have reported constipation and an upset stomach. Patients taking any over-the-counter pain reliever should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible amount of time, and they should report any troublesome side effects to their healthcare team.

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