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Analgesics
Oral analgesics are commonly used for relieving pains such as headaches, menstrual pain, toothache, back pain and arthritis. Some analgesics work on the body’s peripheral and central nervous systems to block or decrease sensitivity to pain. Other analgesics act by inhibiting the formation of certain chemicals in the body that mediate pain. Analgesics come in various oral forms such as tablets, capsules, syrups, suspensions and powders. By 2022, the analgesics market is expected to reach $26.4 Billion (¤22.3 billion) globally.
Categories
Analgesics fall into two categories: Non-opioid: Non-opioid analgesics include paracetamol and non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen. Non-opioid analgesics are the first choice analgesics for treating mild to moderate pain and are also used in moderate to severe pain to potentiate the effects of opioids. Opioid: Opioid analgesics block or decrease sensitivity to pain in the body’s peripheral and central nervous systems. Most of the opioid analgesics are prescription-only medicines and are suitable for moderate to severe pain. Opioids can be further classified into two categories: mild and potent. Mild opioid analgesics include codeine and tramadol. Strong opioid analgesics include morphine and methadone.
Advice when taking Oral Analgesics
• Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or as instructed by a doctor or pharmacist. Do not take more than the recommended dose as this will increase the risk of serious side effects.
• Painkillers should not be shared with anyone else, as different people may experience pain with different cause and severity. • Avoid taking alcohol when taking analgesics as it may increase the risk and severity of side effects of the medicines.
Types OF Analgesics
Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen works as a painkiller by affecting chemicals in the body known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are substances released in response to illness or injury, these cause pain and inflammation (swelling). Prostaglandins that are released in your brain can also cause a high temperature (fever or pyrexia). The painkilling effect of ibuprofen begins soon after dose is taken. Paracetamol: Paracetamol blocks the production of prostaglandins, making the body less aware of the pain or injury. Paracetamol reduces temperature by acting on the area of the brain that is responsible for controlling temperature.
Using Analgesics with Caution
Paracetamol: Taking excessive amounts can cause Liver damage and less frequently kidney damage following overdoses. It should be used with caution for patients with impaired kidney or liver function, alcohol dependence, chronic malnutrition or dehydration Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen can sometimes cause side effects such as ulceration. It is advised that patients over the age of 65 or anyone who has a history of gut problems should take Ibuprofen with caution.
Managing Pain with Oral Analgesics
Oral Pain
Many common conditions cause oral pain or discomfort, such as cold sores (see separate entry), toothaches; tooth sensitivity; teething; minor oral mucosal injury or irritation; oral mucosal disorders, such as recurrent aphthous stomatitis ([RAS]; and xerostomia (dry mouth). There are a number of OTC products available for the self-treatment of oral pain and discomfort, including topical analgesics/ anaesthetics, toothpastes formulated for sensitive teeth, artificial saliva products for dry mouth, and oral mucosal protectants, as well as products that provide treatment of and relief from pain due to cold sores. Patients should be assessed for the appropriateness of therapy and educated on the proper use of these products. Pharmacists should advise patients to seek medical attention if their conditions worsen or show signs of infection. In an effort to self-medicate, some patients may try using analgesics to ward off pain caused by more serious health conditions and pharmacists are in an ideal position to look for signs of a patient who is doing so.
Dental Pain
Toothache is pain in and around the teeth and jaws that is most often caused by tooth decay. The pain usually starts suddenly and it can vary from mild discomfort to a severe throbbing, which is often worse at night. The area of the jaw close to the infected tooth may also be sore and tender to the touch.
Toothache can either come and go or be constant. Eating or drinking (Both hot and cold) can make the pain worse. Painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen may help reduce pain and discomfort.
WWho: Those suffering from pain including dental pain and headaches
WWhat are the symptoms? Pain anywhere in the body
HHow long have they had symptoms? Symptoms will usually clear up
within 7 days of treatment
AAction already taken? Sufferers who may already have tried analgesics.
