Painkillers
34 Painkillers treatments found
Overview
Over-the-Counter Painkiller Tablets and Capsules
Oral painkillers are the most common way to manage everyday pain, including headaches, muscle aches, dental pain, period pain and fever. Choosing the right type depends on the nature of your pain and any other medicines or health conditions.
Important Safety Information
- Do not take more than one paracetamol-containing product at a time - many cold and flu remedies already contain paracetamol
- Ibuprofen should be taken with food. It is not suitable for people with a history of stomach ulcers, kidney problems, or certain heart conditions
- Co-codamol contains codeine, which can cause dependence if used for more than three days. Do not exceed the stated dose
- Aspirin should not be given to children under 16
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your pharmacist before taking any painkiller
Available Treatments
Paracetamol 500mg Tablets
Paracetamol is the most commonly used painkiller in the UK. Effective for mild to moderate pain and reducing fever. Generally well tolerated. Maximum 4g (eight 500mg tablets) in 24 hours.
Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets / Nurofen
Ibuprofen is an NSAID that reduces pain, inflammation and fever. Particularly effective for pain with an inflammatory component such as muscle strains, joint pain and period pain. Take with food.
Co-Codamol 8/500mg Tablets
Co-Codamolcombines paracetamol with a low dose of codeine (8mg) for stronger pain relief. Suited to moderate pain not relieved by paracetamol alone. Short-term use only (max three days without medical advice).
Anadin Extra (Aspirin + Paracetamol + Caffeine)
Anadin Extra is a combination painkiller that uses aspirin, paracetamol and caffeine for headaches with fatigue. Not suitable for children under 16.
Choosing the Right Painkiller
Pain Type | Recommended Treatment | Key Point |
| General headache, fever | Paracetamol | Well tolerated, safe for most people |
| Pain with inflammation (muscle, joint, period) | Ibuprofen / Nurofen | Take with food |
| Moderate pain not relieved by paracetamol | Co-Codamol 8/500 | Max 3 days without medical advice |
| Headache with fatigue | Anadin Extra | Contains caffeine |
Sources and References
NHS - Paracetamol for adults: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/paracetamol-for-adults/
NHS - Ibuprofen for adults: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ibuprofen-for-adults/
NHS - Co-codamol for adults: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/co-codamol-for-adults/
FAQ
Can I take paracetamol and ibuprofen together?
Yes, paracetamol and ibuprofen can generally be taken together by adults as they work through different mechanisms. However, do not take ibuprofen with other NSAIDs, and always check that other medicines you are taking do not already contain paracetamol.
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