What you need to know about analgesics

When we have a headache, a body ache, or a toothache, the first thing that comes to mind is a painkiller. Most of the time, the pain subsides when we buy it from a pharmacy. But what are these painkillers, or as we call them, 'painkillers'? How do they actually work inside our bodies? Are there any special things we need to be careful about when using them? That's what we're going to talk about in this article today.

Simply put, what are these analgesics?

Simply put, painkillers are drugs that relieve or reduce pain in our bodies. But these are not like anesthesia, which is given before surgery. When we are anesthetized, we lose consciousness and become unaware of what is happening around us. But painkillers only control the sensation of pain without altering our consciousness.

We use these painkillers in various situations. For example:

• For pain after surgery.
• After an accident, like breaking a bone.
• For sudden, short-term pain. Imagine you rolled your ankle while playing cricket, and the pain that comes with it.
• For pains such as headaches, lower abdominal pain during menstruation, and muscle cramps.
• Manage chronic pain conditions like arthritis, cancer, or back pain.

How do these painkillers work inside the body?

Painkillers can be divided into two main categories. These are anti-inflammatory painkillers and opioid painkillers. The two work differently. Let's take a look at how they work.

Taking painkillers

Some painkillers (e.g. Paracetamol, low doses of Ibuprofen) can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription. We call these 'Over-the-counter (OTC)' medicines. However, many strong painkillers, especially all opioid medicines, can only be obtained with a prescription from a doctor.

What are the risks of using painkillers?

Although you may think you're "taking it for the pain," using these painkillers incorrectly, excessively, and for a long time can cause serious side effects.

Side effects of common painkillers

Many people don't think much about these medications because they're so easy to get from a pharmacy. However, long-term or high-dose use of NSAIDs, in particular, can lead to:

• Kidney or liver damage.
• Stomach inflammation, nausea, and stomach ulcers.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Increased risk of heart disease.
• Ringing in the ears (Tinnitus).
• Disturbances in the blood clotting process.

Opioid painkillers and the risk of addiction

Opioids are very strong painkillers. They should only be used under strict medical supervision because they carry a high risk of physical dependence and addiction. There are several signs that someone may be becoming addicted to these drugs:

• Taking more medication than the doctor prescribed.
• Trying to reduce medication use but not being able to do so.
• Giving priority to medication to the point of not being able to fulfill work, school, or family responsibilities.
• Continuing to use medication despite knowing that it will cause problems.
• Taking medication even in risky situations like driving.
• Tolerance occurs when the previous dose becomes insufficient over time.
• Withdrawal symptoms when the medication is stopped.

When do you need to seek emergency medical advice?

If you experience any of the following symptoms while using a painkiller, see a doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).

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