There is no single “best” medicine for stomach pain because the cause matters.

Seek urgent medical care now if pain is severe, worsening, localized to one spot, follows an injury, or occurs with fever, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, black/bloody stool, vomiting blood, fainting, yellow skin/eyes, chest pain, pregnancy, or inability to pass stool/gas or urine. The NHS gastritis guidance also advises medical review if stomach pain persists beyond a week, worsens, or keeps recurring.

If you tell me where the pain is, how long it has lasted, and whether you have vomiting, fever, diarrhea, constipation, or heartburn, I can narrow down the safest option.

For most adults with fever, paracetamol (acetaminophen) is usually the first choice if you feel uncomfortable. Follow the dose on your local product label. Do not combine it with cold/flu medicines that also contain paracetamol, and do not exceed the daily maximum because overdose can seriously damage the liver.

Ibuprofen can also reduce fever, but avoid it or ask a pharmacist/doctor first if you have stomach ulcers, kidney disease, dehydration, are on blood thinners, or are pregnant. Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers with a viral illness.

Also rest and drink plenty of fluids. The NHS fever advice supports paracetamol or ibuprofen for discomfort.

Get urgent medical help if fever comes with confusion, difficulty breathing, stiff neck, seizure, severe headache, a purple/non-blanching rash, severe weakness, chest pain, or persistent vomiting. For babies under 3 months with a temperature of 38°C or higher, seek urgent medical assessment.