All You Need To Know About Painkillers

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Painkiller abuse is a huge problem in healthcare.  In many cases, patients suffering from non-complicated pain syndromes, pain killers and muscle relaxers are given as an initial treatment option.  In cases where there is a clear mechanical dysfunction these medications can do more harm than good.  These are the majority of the cases.  Pain is a warning sign that something is wrong and you need to fix it.

What Are The Types Of Painkillers?

Most pain-relieving medications fall into one of the following groups:

  • Non-opioid painkillers – this includes paracetamol. Some of these are available over the counter from pharmacies and supermarkets. Other types need a prescription.

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs – such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These are also known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. Some of these can be bought over the counter, and some need a prescription.

  • Compound painkillers – this is when two different drugs are combined into one. This could be a painkiller with an NSAID, or an opioid painkiller with a non-opioid painkiller. An example is co-codamol, which combines paracetamol with codeine.

  • Opioid painkillers – such as codeine, tramadol and morphine. These are only available on prescription.


Table 1: Examples Of Painkillers And NSAIDs


Risk And Side Effect Of painkillers

Most people are able to take painkillers, but some people need to be careful. You might be at a higher risk of side effects if you:

  • are over 65 years old

  • are pregnant or trying for a baby

  • are breastfeeding

  • have asthma

  • have had an allergic reaction to painkillers before

  • have had stomach ulcers at any time in your life

  • have any problems with your heart, liver, kidneys, blood pressure, circulation, or bowels

  • are a smoker

  • are taking other medications.

Possible side effects of painkillers include:

  • stomach aches

  • feeling sick

  • diarrhea (die-a-ree-ah)

  • headaches

  • drowsiness

  • feeling dizzy

  • stomach ulcers

  • a hole forming in the wall of your stomach or bowel.

If any of these apply to you, ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking painkillers. Or better still go natural. 

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