Understanding the intended uses for common painkillers will help you choose the right type for your condition. For personalized information on the best pain medication for you, consult your GP, who can advise you based on your detailed medical history and exam findings. In selecting proper painkillers, you must take into account what sort of pain you are experiencing.
Coping with Pain from Inflammation
You may need pain medication that fights inflammation (internal or external body swelling) if you’re dealing with osteoarthritis, headache or back pain from a pulled muscle or swollen disc, for example.
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- Paracetamol: The typical dosage for adults is 2 tablets (500 mg each), taken up to 4 times daily. Side effects are typically minimal if taken as directed. If this dosage is not relieving your pain, or if the pain lasts for several days without relief, contact your doctor.
- Co-codamol: Paracetamol combined with codeine can work better than paracetamol alone. A low-dose version is available over the counter (OTC). For pain which doesn’t respond to typical pain relief, speak to your doctor about whether co-codamol would be suitable for you. Warning: This medicine is meant to be taken short term only, as codeine can be addictive. Consult your GP for assistance if you feel you are becoming dependent or if this painkiller no longer helps you.
- NSAIDs: Known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, this category of painkiller includes naproxen sodium, ibuprofen or diclofenac. These medications work well for visible inflammation, from osteoarthritis, for example, or inflammation that occurs after injury, accident or trauma. Take the advised dosage for a limited time to reduce the risks of side effects. If you need long term pain relief, contact your doctor.
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Calming Nerve Pain
To relieve nerve pain, such as sciatica, shingles or diabetic neuropathy (diabetic nerve pain), gabapentin and amitriptyline are commonly prescribed. Speak to your doctor about the most appropriate medication if you are experiencing nerve pain.
- Gabapentin: Commonly used to treat epilepsy and related symptoms, this medicine also relieves nerve pain, and requires a prescription from your doctor. Side effects are similar to amitriptyline.
- Amitriptyline: Originally developed to help depression, amitriptyline also has analgesic properties, making it a viable option for pain relief. This medicine’s side effects can make you feel sleepy or dizzy.
- Morphine: Medications containing morphine are strong, effective painkillers for serious pain only. While taking these medicines, patients must be supervised to avoid an addiction response. Your doctor may use one of these medications, for instance: buprenorphine or oxycodone, to control your initial pain, but may switch to other types of painkillers as your condition progresses.
Consult a Medical Expert to Determine the Right Painkiller for You
Getting the right pain relief for your condition needn’t be a hassle. Discuss the pain you are experiencing with your doctor to receive suitable advice on finding the right medicine. Online pharmacies, such as Prescription Doctor, can prescribe co-codamol among other pain relievers based on a medical questionnaire, which can be delivered to you.
