How many Painkillers to take?
It is important to carefully read the patient information leaflet that comes with your painkiller. This will provide you with the necessary information regarding the dosage, including how much to take and how often. Most over-the-counter painkillers should be taken every four to six hours. Some cold and flu products may also contain painkillers such as paracetamol. Painkillers containing codeine should only be taken for a maximum of three days. It is crucial to avoid taking any medication in excess, as it can be dangerous. Consuming too much paracetamol, for example, can cause severe liver damage, which can be life-threatening.
How do painkillers work?
Painkillers work in different ways depending on their type. Anti-inflammatory painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for inflammation and pain in the body. By reducing prostaglandins, these painkillers can alleviate inflammation and pain. Opiate painkillers like codeine, on the other hand, block pain messages in the brain and spinal cord. Paracetamol reduces the production of prostaglandins in the brain and spinal cord, providing pain relief and reducing fever. Some products combine multiple types of painkillers, such as aspirin, paracetamol, or ibuprofen with codeine.
Different types of Best Painkiller medicines
There are three main over-the-counter painkillers available on the market, each with varying chemical compositions, strengths, and side effects.
Paracetamol: Paracetamol is commonly used to treat headaches and non-nerve pains. When taken at the recommended dose, it is unlikely to have serious side effects. However, taking too much can be dangerous. It is important to avoid doubling up on your paracetamol dose. Paracetamol is generally safe to take with other drugs, but if you have any liver function problems, it is advisable to consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is particularly effective for pain associated with inflammation, such as injuries or joint pain. It should always be taken with food. Prolonged use of ibuprofen can lead to side effects such as stomach upset, bleeding, and kidney and heart problems. Pregnant women are generally advised to take paracetamol instead of ibuprofen.
Aspirin: Aspirin is less effective than ibuprofen and is more likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects. It should not be given to children under 16 and is best taken with food.
For What Conditions, PainKillers are used
Painkillers, also known as analgesics, are used for various conditions depending on the type of pain. They are commonly used for minor complaints such as headaches or muscle sprains. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient for these cases. Prescription pain relievers are typically reserved for moderate-to-severe pain, such as post-surgery pain, trauma, or certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. If you are taking medications containing codeine, it is important to avoid consuming alcohol or taking sedatives, as they can cause excessive drowsiness and affect your breathing.
