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Which painkiller should I choose for different types of pain?!
Pain is a problem we often encounter in life. Whether it is due to accidental injury, illness, or recovery from surgery, choosing the right painkiller is very important for relieving pain. However, when faced with different types of pain, do you know how to choose the most appropriate painkiller?
Types of painkillers
Painkillers can be classified into different categories based on their mechanism of action. Here are some common pain relievers:
“Painkillers can generally be divided into non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anesthetics (such as opioids), and other drugs used in combination.”
Mild pain relievers: acetaminophen (paracetamol)
Acetaminophen is commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain and is also helpful in reducing fever. It can be used alone or with narcotic medication for more severe pain.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
These drugs are typically used to reduce pain and fever and, in high doses, can also reduce inflammation. Common NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
Anesthetic drugs
Anesthetic drugs such as opioids have powerful analgesic effects and are particularly effective in treating pain after surgery or cancer. However, long-term use may lead to addiction problems, so it should be used with caution.
Caffeine combined with painkillers
Caffeine is sometimes used with other pain relievers to enhance their pain-relieving effects. This means that a particular pain reliever may not be as effective if taken alone as when properly combined.
Specific types of pain and their corresponding painkillers
Different types of pain require different pain medications.
Neuropathic pain
For neuropathic pain, research shows that certain drugs not considered traditional pain relievers, such as tricyclic antidepressants and anti-epileptic drugs, can be effective alternative treatments.
Chronic pain
People with chronic pain may need to use pain medications long-term. In these cases, doctors usually recommend switching to different opioids regularly to avoid drug resistance.
Postoperative pain
Postoperative pain usually requires the use of narcotic drugs such as mefenamic acid, but other mild analgesics such as paracetamol or NSAIDs can be more effective in relieving pain.
Precautions for using painkillers
"Choose painkillers based on your needs and doctor's advice to avoid side effects or health problems caused by taking them indiscriminately."
Before choosing a painkiller, it is necessary to understand the dosage and possible side effects of the painkiller. Additionally, long-term use or overdose of pain medications can lead to serious health problems, including ulcers, liver damage, or dependence.
