Yes, pain relievers are eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Pain Relievers FSA/HSA Eligible?
Pain relievers are used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including headaches, muscle aches, joint pain, back pain, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and fever. Because they are used to alleviate symptoms of diagnosed medical conditions, pain relievers qualify as eligible medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d).
Following the CARES Act of 2020, over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications are FSA- and HSA-eligible without a prescription. These products contain active medicinal ingredients that work to reduce inflammation, block pain signals, or lower fever.
FSA- and HSA-eligible pain relievers include:
Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol®)
Ibuprofen (e.g., Advil®, Motrin®)
Naproxen sodium (e.g., Aleve®)
Aspirin (e.g., Bayer®, Ecotrin®)
Children’s pain relievers with active ingredients listed above
Topical pain relief creams or patches (e.g., lidocaine-based or menthol-based products)
All of these products are eligible as long as they contain an active medicinal ingredient and are intended for the treatment of pain related to a medical condition.
What’s Not Covered?
Dietary supplements and herbal remedies are never FSA/HSA eligible, even if they are marketed for pain management or inflammation support. These products do not contain FDA-recognized active medicinal ingredients and do not qualify as medical treatments.
Homeopathic pain relievers are generally eligible if they contain an active medicinal ingredient and have a National Drug Code (NDC). These products are treated the same as conventional OTC medications.
Products marketed for relaxation, general wellness, or cosmetic use—such as bath soaks, essential oils, or massage oils—are not eligible unless they are labeled for medical pain relief and contain an eligible active ingredient.
How to Buy Pain Relievers with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase pain relievers directly at buyFSA.com using your FSA or HSA card. Every item listed on buyFSA.com is FSA- and HSA-eligible, so there’s no guesswork or reimbursement hassle.
If purchasing elsewhere:
Use your FSA or HSA card at checkout (in-store or online)
Look for products clearly labeled to treat pain, inflammation, or fever
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid supplements, herbal products, or general wellness items without a treatment claim
