There are two types of painkillers. Analgesics work by reducing pain signals to the brain, while anti-inflammatories block enzymes that cause inflammatory pain. Certain types of pain relief are good for different types of pain. Instead of taking whatever happens to be handy, it’s a good idea to take pills that will work best for your specific problem.
Remember it’s vital to follow the dosage instructions on the packet and never take more than stipulated. Here’s a look at the four most commonly used painkillers, what they’re good for and their possible drawbacks.
**Ibuprofen
**This anti-inflammatory works by blocking the production of prostaglandins; substances that help take pain messages to the brain. Because prostaglandins also play a part in triggering fevers and menstrual cramps, ibuprofen can be useful with temperatures and period pain. It is absorbed into the blood stream quickly and is fairly mild.
Use for: Headaches, arthritis pain, toothache, period pain, pain due to injuries such as sprains and muscular pain.
Possible problems:* *Prostaglandins also protect the stomach lining so ibuprofen should not be used by anyone who has had stomach ulcers or internal bleeding of the stomach. It shouldn’t be taken on an empty stomach as it can cause indigestion and nausea. It may cause asthma in people who are sensitive to it. People on blood-pressure medication should ask their doctor before taking it.
Codeine
This analgesic is a mild opioid which comes from the opium plant, like morphine and heroin. Rather than working on the cause of your pain, Codeine reduces the perception of pain by blocking receptors that send pain signals to the brain. Codeine increases your tolerance of pain, while decreasing discomfort.
**
Use for:** Short-term moderate pain, such as a new injury or dental pain.
Possible problems: Codeine has a sedative effect and can make you feel drowsy. Possible side effects include constipation, dizziness and nausea. Like other opioids, it can be addictive and long-term use can lead to headaches associated with overusing medicines.
Paracetamol
This is an analgesic that works on pain not directly caused by inflammation. It blocks the production of prostaglandins but, unlike ibuprofen, it can be taken on an empty stomach. It’s the only painkiller suitable for use during pregnancy.
Use for: Aches and pains, cold and flu symptoms, neck and back pain and headaches.
Possible problems: It’s easy to unintentionally take too much because it’s included in lots of products – such as cold medications – and you may not realise you’re doubling up on it. Too much paracetamol can result in severe liver damage.
**Aspirin
**Originally derived from willow bark, aspirin acts on prostaglandins to relieve pain. It can also stop prostaglandins from causing platelets in the blood to clump together, which can lead to a clot. This in turn can go on to cause a heart attack or stroke. Aspirin can reduce this clotting effect and thin the blood, reducing the chance of further heart problems.
Use for: Headaches, period pain, dental pain, minor injuries, arthritis pain.
**
Possible problems:** Aspirin has the harshest effect on the stomach and may lead to indigestion or stomach ulcers. It may also interfere with some other medicines. Because it thins the blood, it shouldn’t be taken by anyone on blood-thinning medication.
