A5. OTC Analgesics Flashcards
what are analgesics?
Painkillers
what are antipyretics
Reduce temperature. Help to lower fever
Describe paracetamol
-effective analgesic and antipyretic
-Readily available
-can be GSL, P or POM depending on quantity
-Can treat all age groups from 2 months old (but check the licenced indications!)
-dosage based on weight
-few side effects with licenced doses
what counselling points should you consider with paracetamol?
-dont exceed stated dose
-dont take any other paracetamol containing products
Describe aspirin
-analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory
-Different doses for different purposes
-NOT to be used in children under 16 years of age – Reye’s Syndrome risk
-Not suitable for patients with asthma or stomach ulcers
common side effects of aspirin?
-Indigestion and/or stomach ache
-Bruising or bleeding more easily than normal
counselling points of aspirin
-Take with or after food
-Not to be taken by children aged under 16 years
-Report unexplained bruising or bleeding
contraindications of aspirin
-History of or current stomach ulcer
-History of indigestion
-Patients with asthma
-Allergy to aspirin or similar (NSAID) painkillers eg ibuprofen
-Blood clotting problems
-Liver or kidney problems
Describe ibuprofen
-analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory
-Readily available
-can be GSL, P or POM
-Can treat all age groups from 3 months old (check licenced indications)
-Different dosage forms available
common side effects of ibuprofen?
-Headache
-Dizziness
-Feeling/being sick
-Indigestion and/or stomach ache
counselling points of ibuprofen?
-Take with or after food
-Do not exceed the stated dose
Describe Codeine and dihydrocodeine
-strong painkillers (analgesic)
-only sold in comb with other meds
-only sold for use for max 3 days
-addiction risk
Describe analgesic combination products
-Cold and flu remedies
-Multiple analgesics in one product
-Different dosage forms
what are the dosage forms for analgesics? (should ask patient what they prefer)
-tablets/ capsules
-liquids
-creams or gels
-Orodispersible tablets
-Patches
-Throat lozenges
-Suppositories
