Medication
We use the latest analgesics (pain-killers) and anti-inflammatory medications, often in combination, to achieve the best pain relief with minimal adverse effects.
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- Paracetamol
- Safe, effective analgesic, often used in conjunction with weak opioids (such as codeine) to produce compound preparations. Overdose of Paracetamol can lead to serious liver damage.
- Paracetamol
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Highly effective for pain where there is an inflammatory component.
- Adverse effects may include gastrointestinal irritation, bleeding and kidney problems. Adverse effects can be minimised by taking the medication after food and using it for short periods. NSAIDs are contra-indicated (not appropriate) for use by asthmatics.
- NSAIDs
- NSAIDs
- Examples of NSAIDs include Diclofenac and Ibuprofen.
- COX 2 (Cyclo-Oxygenase) Inhibitors
- This is a newer group of anti-inflammatory medication, similar to NSAIDs and is highly effective for pain where there is an inflammatory component.
- Adverse effects similar to NSAIDs, but less problems with gastrointestinal irritation.
- COX 2 Inhibitors
- Examples of COX 2 Inhibitors include Celecoxib.
- Weak Opioids
- These are Analgesics used in mild to moderate pain. Often used on combination with Paracetamol.
- Adverse effects may include tiredness and constipation.
- Weak Opioids
- Examples of Weak Opioids include Codeine, Dihydrocodeine and Tramadol. Compound Preparations include combinations of Paracetamol and Weak Opioids such as Co-Codamol and Co-Dydramol.
- Strong Opioids
- These are Analgesics used in the management of moderate to severe pain. They are Morphine-like drugs.
- Adverse effects may include nausea, tiredness and constipation.
- Strong Opioids
- Available in different preparations including tablets, liquids and skin patches. Examples of Strong Opioids include Oxycodone, Buprenorphine, Buprenorphine patch, Morphine, Fentanyl and Hydromorphone.
- Anti-Neuropathic Pain Medications
- There are a number of different medications used in the management of neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain is pain where there is damage and / or dysfunction of the nervous system.
- Adverse effects may include dizziness, dry mouth and tiredness.
- Examples of Anti-Neuropathic Pain Medications include Gabapentin, Pregabalin, Amitryptilline, Carbamazepine, Topiramate, Lignocaine Patches and Capsaicin.
- For an example of Gabapentin use read the case study ‘Post Herpetic Neuralgia Treated with Gabapentin’.
Links to further information on Medications
For further information on specific medications visit Drugs.com, Rxlist.com or BNF (British National Formulary).
You can find useful links to further information on all aspects of pain treatment in links and resources and via the list of conditions we treat.
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