Pain Relief

Question 1

Why do we feel pain?

Answer 1

Prostaglandins are released from tissues surrounding the damaged area, causing inflammation, redness and swelling.

Question 2

How does Paracetamol work?

Answer 2

It inhibits the production of prostaglandins in the brain.

It does not reduce inflammation or swelling

It is gentle on the stomach (compared to NSAIDS)

Question 3

What is the maximum daily dose of paracetamol in adults?

Answer 3

2 x 500mg tablets QDS

WARNING: Paracetamol can also be found in other otc products. Important to make sure there is not an overdose causing liver damage.

No more than 8 tablets in 24hrs

Question 4

Paracetamol for Children

Answer 4

It is important to check the age of the child to ensure the correct dose is given.

Question 5

What is the maximum dose of ibuprofen that can be given to an adult in 24hrs?

Answer 5

400mg TDS (no more than 1200mg in 24hrs)
Ibuprofen should be taken with food

Question 6

What patients should caution using ibuprofen?

Answer 6

Patients who have:
Asthma
Stomach ulcers
Anticoagulants 
Using other NSAIDs 
Heart failure 
Liver failure 
Uncontrolled BP
Steroids
Antibiotics
Antidepressants
Diabetic medication

Due to the risk of bleeding

Question 7

Brands that contain paracetamol?

Answer 7

Disprol
Calpol
Hedex
Panadol

Migraine remedies
Lemsip
Night Nurse
Co-codamol

Question 8

Can paracetamol be used in pregnancy and BF?

Answer 8

YES

Question 9

Can ibuprofen be sold in pregnancy and BF?

Answer 9

NO

Question 10

Cautions of diclofenac gel

Answer 10

Do not use with other NSAIDS

Not to be used under the age of 14

Question 11

How old do you need to be to use Voltarol (diclofenac)?

Answer 11

14 and over

Question 12

How old do you need to be to use aspirin?

Answer 12

16 and over

Due to the association with Reye’s syndrome

Question 13

Patients who should caution aspirin?

Answer 13

Patients who have:

Asthma
Stomach Ulcer
Use of anticoagulant drugs
NSAIDS
Antidepressants
Steroids

Question 14

What is the dose of Naproxen (Feminax ultra)

For patients 15-50

Answer 14

Day 1: 2 x 250mg tablets taken as soon as the pain begins, then a further 250mg tablet can be taken 6-8hrs later. (No more than 3 tablets in 24hrs)

Day 2 and 3: 1 x 250mg tablet every 8 hrs (No more than 3 tablets in 24hrs)

Question 15

What ingredients are in Panadol Ultra?

Answer 15

Paracetamol and Codeine.

Combination products should only be used in patients 18 years and over

Question 16

What is Nuromol?

Answer 16

Is a combination of Paracetamol 500mg and Ibuprofen 200mg in a single tablet form.

(suitable for 18 years and over)

Question 17

What products contain Paracetamol and Codeine

Answer 17

Panadol ultra
Paramol
Syndol

Question 18

What is caffeine’s role when paired with a painkiller?

Answer 18

It is thought to enhance the painkilling effect.

Anadin extra
Panadol Extra

Question 19

What is the role of antihistamines when paired with painkillers?
e.g diphenhydramine

Answer 19

Acts as a muscle relaxant and can aid sleep

e.g. Panadol Nightpain

Question 20

Self-care tips for pain?

Answer 20

Pain can be relieved by rubbing or applying a hot or cold compress.

Sleep deprivation can worsen pain, so keep a regular sleep routine.

Everyday activities such as walking and swimming can help ease pain if they are introduced gradually.