How to use painkillers effectively

Good Housekeeping online 08.08.2008

There's more to it than popping a couple of pills...

closeup of tablets 1 Combine different types

Using two types of painkiller together can provide better pain relief than a larger dose of the same one. For instance, taking 600mg of paracetamol plus codeine gives pain relief equivalent to having taken 1000mg of paracetamol. But the painkillers you combine must have different sorts of action - some prevent inflammation, others block pain in different ways - so check with your pharmacist first.

2 Maximise the effects
If you have old painkillers in your first-aid kit, throw them away; most become less effective after a year or so. You should also use the right formulations at the right time - for instance, a slow release one at night if you suffer from pain when you get up in the morning.

3 Reduce possible side-effects
Different painkillers have different side-effects, so if you're taking codeine, make sure you drink lots of water to avoid constipation. Stomach irritation is a well-known problem with aspirin, so choose a soluble form or, if you're using aspirin tablets, take them with milk. Think about using topical painkillers, particularly if you're older. And people who suffer from asthma shouldn't take ibuprofen as it can make the condition worse.

4 Check the labels
Read the labels on over-the-counter cold and flu remedies you're taking and check if they contain paracetamol. If so, don't take any additional paracetamol, but choose another sort of painkiller.

5 Take painkillers by the clock
This is the top tip of many pain specialists for acute pain - take your tablets four-hourly (or as directed), before the pain breaks through.

Never treat pain yourself for more than a few weeks without seeking medical attention.

Click here to read more about pain and how to cope with it

The answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone and are not substitutes for professional medical advice. If you're worried, see your GP. For more information, visit www.netdoctor.co.uk