Pain relievers

Overview

Pain relievers, often referred to as analgesics or painkillers, are medications designed to alleviate various types of pain, such as headaches, injuries, or arthritis. These medications are generally divided into two main categories: anti-inflammatory analgesics, which work by reducing inflammation, and opioid analgesics, which alter the brain’s perception of pain. Some pain relievers can be purchased over the counter, while others require a prescription. Unlike anesthetics, which block nerve signals and induce unconsciousness during surgery, pain relievers focus on easing pain without affecting sensory perception or alertness.

Types

Pain relievers come in several forms, including:

• Films: Placed under the tongue to dissolve.
• Injectable liquids: Administered with a syringe.
• Oral liquids: Taken by mouth.
• Nasal sprays: Administered through the nose.
• Patches: Applied to the skin.
• Pills, tablets, or capsules: Swallowed.
• Powders: Mixed and taken in various ways.

Consult your healthcare provider to choose the best option, as well as to determine the appropriate dosage, frequency, and duration.

Reasons for undergoing the procedure

Pain relievers are used to manage pain and inflammation in various scenarios, including:

• Post-surgery: To ease discomfort after surgical procedures.
• Injury: For pain from injuries like fractures.
• Acute pain: To address sudden pain, such as from a twisted ankle or headache.
• Aches and pains: For issues like menstrual cramps or muscle soreness.
• Chronic conditions: To help with ongoing pain from conditions such as arthritis, cancer, or back pain.

Risk

Pain relievers are generally safe but may lead to side effects if overused, taken for too long, or in high doses. Potential risks include:

• Organ damage: Such as to the liver or kidneys.
• Digestive issues: Including diarrhea, constipation, nausea, or heartburn.
• Cardiovascular problems: Potential heart issues.
• Allergic reactions: Hypersensitivity responses.
• Hearing problems: Ringing in the ears or deafness.
• Stomach ulcers: Development of ulcers.
• Bleeding issues: Trouble with blood clotting leading to excessive bleeding.

Opioid pain relievers can cause similar side effects and carry the risk of physical dependence and abuse, potentially leading to substance use disorder. This condition can vary in severity and may not always be immediately recognized.

Signs that a problem may be developing with pain relievers include:

• Regularly taking more medication than originally prescribed.
• Making multiple unsuccessful attempts to reduce usage.
• Consistently failing to meet major obligations at work, school, or home.
• Continuing to use the medication despite persistent issues.
• Giving up important social or recreational activities.
• Using the medication in dangerous situations, such as while driving.
• Developing a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the medication.

Ensure that pain relievers are kept out of reach of children to avoid accidental ingestion.

Procedure

Pain relievers fall into two major categories: anti-inflammatory and opioids. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers reduce inflammation at the pain site. Examples include:

• Acetaminophen
• Aspirin
• COX Inhibitors
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Such as ibuprofen and naproxen

Pain relievers known as opioids (or narcotics) alter the brain’s perception of pain. These can be natural or synthetic drugs, with many resembling morphine, while newer, laboratory-created opioids also exist. Examples include:

• Codeine
• Fentanyl
• Hydrocodone
• Meperidine
• Methadone
• Naloxone or Naltrexone
• Oxycodone

Outcome

Some pain relievers are available over the counter (OTC) without a prescription, while others require a prescription. Prescription-only options often include higher doses of OTC medications, combination analgesics, and all opioids.

Over time, you might develop tolerance, where the medication becomes less effective, requiring higher or more frequent doses. It’s important to manage this carefully to avoid side effects and dependence.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Allergic reactions like rash or swelling
• Black bowel movements
• Blood or coffee ground-like material in vomit
• Changes in vision or hearing
• Severe stomach pain or headache
• Trouble urinating or discolored urine
• Yellowish skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual weight gain