Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you needed a painkiller, but you were uncertain about its safety? Perhaps you visited a pharmacy and obtained an over-the-counter (OTC) painkiller, only to worry about its potential risks. In such moments of confusion, many turn to Google for guidance on which painkiller is safe. Let’s explore the answer to this common concern.
“Pain is your physical body crying. It needs to be pacified and allowed to compose itself.”
Dr Milon V Mitragotri
Choose the safest
You can classify most painkillers into one of these groups. The first two are readily available over the counter at pharmacies, while the others require a prescription.
- Acetaminophen/Paracetamol: You are generally consider it if you are healthy, do not have liver disease, and not allergic to them. You can use them commonly for pain relief and fever. Available in strengths of 500mg, 650mg, and even 1000mg, they can be taken up to three times a day for five days. If used for more than seven days, it’s advisable to consult with a physician, as they can potentially cause liver toxicity.
- NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Commonly given for fever accompanied by inflammation, NSAIDs include diclofenac, aceclofenac, ibuprofen, etoricoxib, nimesulide, ketoprofen, and others available over the counter. If you have acute pain, it can be taken for a maximum of three to five days. Prolonged use may lead to renal and cardiac issues, causing significant morbidity. Dosages will not be recommended for more than twice a day.
- Opioids: There are weak opioids (tramadol, codeine, buprenorphine, tapentadol) and strong opioids (morphine, methadone). Weak opioids are prescribed for chronic pain for you but should be administered under a physician’s supervision. They may cause constipation and somnolence but have no long-term effects in healthy individuals. Strong opioids are not safe for routine use and can have life-threatening side effects.
- Adjuvants/Antidepressants: If you are suffering with chronic pain, you may be prescribed antidepressants such as amitriptyline, pregabalin, duloxetine, nortriptyline, gabapentin, venlafaxine. While though they are classified as antidepressants, they are used at lower doses to alleviate pain. Typically prescribed for 4-6 weeks, they require continuous monitoring, especially for individuals with kidney, liver diseases, or other specific conditions. Side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and urinary retention.
Final word
For common headaches or body pain with fever, using acetaminophen is often a suitable choice. In the case of an open injury, opting for an NSAID like Combiflam or Ibuprofen might be preferable. Regardless of the cause, painkillers should be taken at regular intervals, except for common headaches where you can be taken as needed. In addition, you can consider the use of local application of ointments like diclofenac, aceclofenac etc.
If your pain persists despite a short course of analgesics, it’s essential to consult your doctor. Unresolved pain can become chronic and affect you over an extended period.
Do you have any queries about your pain? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment box below or reach out to me personally.
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Thank you Mr. Sethuram
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