Study Finds Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers May Enhance Concussion Recovery

New research suggests that individuals who utilize over-the-counter pain relievers following a concussion could experience a quicker recovery compared to those who do not. This preliminary study, set to be showcased at the upcoming 77th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology in April 2025, indicates a potential link between the use of these medications and recovery rates after concussions.

While the study reveals an association, it does not establish a definitive cause-and-effect relationship. The lead researcher from the University of Washington emphasizes the importance of these findings, noting that the availability and affordability of over-the-counter pain relievers could offer new avenues for treatment amidst the limited therapeutic options currently available for concussion management.

The cohort study, conducted by the NCAA and the US Department of Defense CARE Consortium, involved NCAA athletes and military cadets suffering from concussions. A total of 1,661 participants were analyzed, with 813 using pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, while the remaining 848 refrained from these medications.

Researchers monitored the duration it took for participants to be cleared for unrestricted activities, measuring recovery at both the 50% and 90% milestones. Those who used pain relievers were found to be 20% more likely to have a quicker return to normal activities than those who did not. Specifically, individuals taking pain relievers were cleared approximately two days earlier at the 50% recovery mark and seven days earlier by the time they reached 90% recovery.

Additionally, participants using pain relievers reported a 15% increased likelihood of achieving symptom resolution more rapidly compared to their counterparts. On average, those utilizing pain relievers experienced a reduction in symptoms approximately one day sooner at 50% recovery and three days sooner at 90% recovery.

The study also noted that participants who began taking pain relievers immediately following their injury had significantly shorter recovery times. For instance, in the group reaching 50% recovery, those who initiated medication on the first day post-injury returned to play and reported resolution of symptoms around eight days faster than those who delayed their medication until five days or more after the injury.

No notable differences were observed between the various types of pain relievers in terms of recovery speed. The researcher highlighted the need for further validation of these preliminary results through controlled trials to establish more definitive treatment protocols for concussion recovery.

In summary, while the findings offer promising insights into the potential benefits of over-the-counter pain relievers for concussion recovery, further research is essential to solidify these associations and develop standardized treatment guidelines.