FROM THE GP’S SURGERY

MODERN painkillers are not a risk-free magic wand. It’s important to understand how different painkillers work and to deal with the root cause of the problem: Blocks molecules called prostaglandins, which tell the brain the body is in pain.

PARACETAMOL:

■ Best for: General pain relief such as backache, toothache and headaches. If pain is severe, you can take paracetamol at the same time as aspirin or ibuprofen.

■ Side effects: Paracetamol in high doses is dangerously toxic to the liver – just 15 can be enough to cause serious harm in an adult and effects may not become apparent until two to three days later. Never exceed the stated dose and don’t take for more than a few days without consulting your GP or online doctor.

ASPIRIN: Prevents the enzyme cyclooxygenase from releasing ‘prostaglandins’, natural secretions that transmit messages of pain to the brain. Higher doses act as an anti-inflammatory. It also prevents platelets in the blood from sticking, so makes them less likely to clot or block blood vessels.

■ Best for: Alleviating flu symptoms as it lowers temperature and also for relieving joint pain. In lower doses, aspirin thins the blood and helps to prevent clots that can cause stroke and heart attack.

■ Side effects: Irritates the stomach lining, so can cause stomach ulcers and bleeding. Some people have allergic reactions to aspirin, developing a skin rash, breathing problems or swelling.

IBUPROFEN: A COX inhibitor blocking the production of several types of prostaglandins, which cause inflammation and pain. It can also lower raised temperatures caused by fever.

■ Best for: Acute pain such as headaches, period pain and joint aches. Also used to ease chronic forms of pain that come with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

■ Side effects: It irritates the stomach lining, causing indigestion and nausea; long term, it can lead to gastric ulcers.

CODEINE: Related to morphine, this opioid drug mimics the action of the body’s natural pain killers. It blocks pain receptors at the end of nerves, stopping it from reaching the brain.

■ Best for: One-off relief for sudden pain – after an injury or tooth extraction, for instance. Can be good for period pain.

■ Side effects: Can cause sluggish bowel movements and constipation, some patients may feel drowsy and symptoms of nausea and itching are common. Opiate medications can be addictive.

Speak to your doctor about severe pain relief from morphine-based treatments, available as tablets, liquids, patches or lozenges. Also, don’t forget some natural painkillers, such as peppermint extract, olive oil or turmeric.