OVER-COUNTER PAINKILLERS

Pain medications are called analgesics. All have benefits and risks. Some types of pain are relieved better with one kind of medicine than another.

What takes away your pain may not work for someone else, so here are some tips: Watch out for side effects and report them to your GP Never exceed the dose Read the warnings on the label Store painkillers securely There are various types of overthe-counter painkillers that include:

Paracetamol. It relieves pain, headaches and lowers fever, but it doesn’t relieve inflammation. It doesn’t cause stomach problems and has fewer side effects than other analgesics. It’s safe for children. Never exceed the dose (3g in 24hrs for adults).

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs). These block an enzyme called cyclooxygenase which helps make prostaglandins. By taking an NSAID the body creates less prostaglandin, and your inflammation, pain or fever will be reduced.

Aspirin. This drug is an antiinflammatory as well as a painkiller. It prevents blood clots and your GP may prescribe aspirin if you have a heart condition.

Codeine. This one’s an opioid painkiller and therefore potentially addictive. It acts on the pain centre in the brain to dampen down pain sensations. It gives you constipation and can make you feel spaced out.