From the FDA Drug Label
ACTIVE INGREDIENT (IN EACH CAPLET) Acetaminophen USP, 650 mg The recommended pain killer medication for abdominal pain secondary to gastroenteritis is acetaminophen.
- The medication can be given orally (PO). 1
From the Research
For abdominal pain due to gastroenteritis, acetaminophen (Tylenol) at a dose of 650-1000 mg every 6 hours as needed (not exceeding 4000 mg daily) is the recommended first-line option, as it is generally well tolerated and has a lower risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects compared to ibuprofen, especially in patients with significant vomiting or diarrhea 2. When considering pain management for gastroenteritis, it's essential to weigh the benefits and risks of different analgesics.
- Acetaminophen is considered a suitable first-choice analgesic for many adults with mild to moderate acute pain, including those with liver, kidney, or cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, asthma, or who are older 2.
- Ibuprofen, on the other hand, may irritate the stomach, especially in patients with a history of non-ulcer GI disease, and its use should be cautious in such cases 3.
- The gastrointestinal tolerability of ibuprofen is at least as good as that of paracetamol, but significantly better than that of aspirin, at over-the-counter doses 3.
- However, it's crucial to note that the efficacy of acetaminophen for chronic pain conditions is limited, and its use should be reassessed if pain persists beyond 48-72 hours 4. Key considerations for managing abdominal pain due to gastroenteritis include:
- Staying well-hydrated with clear fluids like water, diluted sports drinks, or clear broths to prevent dehydration
- Avoiding dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty or spicy foods until symptoms improve
- Seeking medical attention immediately if pain is severe, persists beyond 48-72 hours, or is accompanied by high fever, bloody stools, or inability to keep fluids down, as these could indicate a more serious condition requiring different treatment.