Table of contents:
- Side effects of pain relievers (analgesics) based on the type
- 1. Paracetamol
- 2.Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs / Non-Steorid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- 3. Corticosteroids / steroids
- 4. Opioids
There are various types of pain relievers (analgesics) with their respective advantages and side effects. Understanding the side effects of these medicines is very important, especially if you need to take them for a long time.
Side effects of pain relievers (analgesics) based on the type
Pain relievers fall into many categories. Some of them can be found easily at the pharmacy, even without a doctor's prescription. However, some are more severe and must be accompanied by a doctor's prescription.
Here are the various types of pain relievers (analgesics) that are often consumed and their side effects.
1. Paracetamol
Paracetamol is used to treat mild to moderate pain, such as headaches. This medicine is usually taken only when needed, but sufferers of chronic pain can also take it regularly in certain doses.
Paracetamol is a pain reliever drug that rarely causes side effects, unless taken in excess. Paracetamol side effects include:
- Allergic reactions in the form of a rash and swelling of the skin
- The face looks flushed, the heart rate and blood pressure decrease when giving paracetamol by injection
- Decrease in the number of white blood cells and platelets
- In case of overdose, it can cause liver and kidney damage, which can be fatal
2.Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs / Non-Steorid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are a group of drugs used to treat mild to moderate pain accompanied by inflammation. Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, diclofenac, and mefenamic acid.
NSAIDs are safe to take in small doses or for short periods of time. Side effects usually arise when these pain relievers (analgesics) are taken in large and prolonged doses.
The following are side effects that you need to be aware of:
- Stomach pain, ulcers in the stomach, and a burning sensation in the upper stomach due to increased stomach acid (heartburn)
- Allergic reactions such as rash, cough, and swelling of the throat
- Firefly head
- Ear straps
- Blood pressure increases
- In aspirin users can inhibit blood clotting
3. Corticosteroids / steroids
Steroid-based pain relievers are used when other drugs are not effective in dealing with the complaint. Steroids such as prednisone, dexamethasone, and triamcinolone can provide pain relief by reducing swelling and inflammation.
Although the effect is immediate, steroid pain relievers can also cause side effects. Here are some of the complaints you might experience:
- Visual disturbances
- Sleep problems to insomnia
- Bruising easily
- Blood pressure increases
- Susceptible to infection
- Increased appetite
- Gastric irritation
4. Opioids
Opioids are used to treat moderate to severe pain. For example, in postoperative patients or to deal with pain due to cancer. Examples of drugs in this class include codeine, morphine, tramadol, and oxycodone.
Opioid drugs must be taken according to strict doctor's instructions. The reason is, the abuse of pain relievers from the opioid class can cause side effects in the form of addiction.
If you take it according to doctor's instructions, the side effects that appear are usually not severe. You may just experience nausea or vomiting, constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, and drowsiness.
Any type of pain reliever will provide benefits if used wisely. You can also play an active role in preventing side effects, namely by taking pain relievers according to the dosage.
Do not increase or decrease the dose of medication without first consulting your doctor. If the medication you are taking doesn't make a difference, talk to your doctor about the problem so you can get an alternative.
