Painkillers also have a risk of side effects. These side effects are more common if you have been taking more painkillers for a long time. Over-the-counter painkillers usually have fewer side effects than more powerful prescription painkillers.
Possible short-term side effects of analgesics-
◆ Drowsiness means napping.
◆ There may be difficulty in concentrating on any subject.
◆ Lack of energy can be experienced in the body.
◆ There may be a problem of narrowing or shrinking of the pupils of the eye.
◆ There may be flushing (redness and warmth) of the face and neck.
◆ Constipation, nausea or vomiting may occur.
◆ There may also be trouble in breathing.
Pain killers should not be used with alcohol, antihistamines, barbiturates, or benzodiazepines. Because these substances cause breathing to slow, their combined effects can cause life-threatening respiratory depression.
Possible long-term side effects of analgesics-
◆ You may get used to it after using it for a long time.
◆ Development of tolerance to the drug. It is a condition in which gradually a greater dose of a drug or a greater combination of drugs is required to produce the same effect.
◆ You may experience withdrawal symptoms, which is the feeling of being sick when you stop taking a medicine.
◆ Overdose, that is, taking more than what is needed, is also a major problem.
◆ Some painkillers can interact with other medicines you are already taking. This may cause reactions or reduce the effectiveness of other treatments. Therefore, when you are asked to take a painkiller, you should tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines.
◆ If you have a stomach problem, painkillers are not suitable for you as they can cause stomach bleeding.
◆ They are also not suitable if you have asthma, heart disease, liver or kidney problems. Before taking painkillers, check with your pharmacist or doctor whether they are suitable for you.
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