Many people who suffer from chronic pain due to arthritis or other musculoskeletal ailments manage their pain with over-the-counter pain relievers such as naproxen or ibuprofen. While these pain killers can be effective in managing mild to moderate pain, like all drugs, they can have side effects and must be used properly in order to minimize the risk of negative effects and interactions. Follow these tips to ensure you're using your pain relievers safely.

Don't take more than is recommended on the bottle.

Ibuprofen can cause stomach bleeding, and this risk increases at higher doses. Naproxen can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. If the amount of the drug recommended on the bottle is not sufficient to control your pain, then contact your doctor or visit a pain management clinic like Alberta Back and Neck Rehab and Sports Injury Clinic to explore other safe options for controlling your pain. Don't simply take a higher dose without your doctor's approval.

Take your medication with food.

Ibuprofen, naproxen, and other over-the-counter pain medications can irritate your stomach and intestines. Taking them with food reduces your risk of digestive side effects. Even if you only eat a few crackers or a banana with your pills, get into this habit and stick with it.

Check with your doctor before taking other medications concurrently with your pain meds.

Certain drugs, both prescription and over-the-counter, may interact with your pain medication and cause dangerous side effects. Always check with your doctor before taking another medication at the same time as your pain relievers. If a doctor prescribes you a medication, be sure to inform him or her that you take an over-the-counter medication for pain management on a regular basis.

Stop taking the medication if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Many over-the-counter pain relievers may not be safe for women to take during pregnancy. If you are thinking of becoming pregnant, let your doctor know -- he or she will tell you whether you can safely continue taking the medication, or if there is another safer drug you can take instead. If you find out you are pregnant while taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, stop taking it immediately and call your doctor for guidance.

Many people mistakenly assume that since the pain killers they take are sold without a prescription, they must be safe. The truth is, these drugs can cause just as much harm as prescription drugs if not taken properly. They're excellent for relieving pain, but you must follow the tips above if you want them to do more good than harm.