pain relief

Pain Relief

Pain relief medicines help reduce discomfort caused by headaches, period pain, muscle aches, joint issues, or injury.
There are many types of painkillers available - some reduce inflammation, others block pain signals, and some combine different ingredients for stronger relief.
Choosing the right option depends on your symptoms, age, and any existing medical conditions. Below is a summary of commonly used pain relief products available without a prescription.

Types of pain relief

Pain relief products come in different forms including tablets, capsules, and topical gels. Here's what's available:

Naproxen tablets

• A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for joint pain, muscle pain, period pain, and strains
• Longer-acting than ibuprofen - usually taken twice daily
• Is prescription only and has a wide range of contra-indications (e.g. asthma, heart disease, kidney problems, previous stroke)

Paracetamol caplets

• A standard painkiller and fever reducer
• Suitable for mild to moderate pain, including headaches and cold symptoms
• Gentle on the stomach and safe for most people

Ibuprofen tablets

• A fast-acting NSAID used for pain, inflammation, and swelling
• Commonly used for period pain, dental pain, and sports injuries
• Should be taken with food to reduce stomach irritation

Paramol tablets

• Contains paracetamol and a low dose of dihydrocodeine (an opioid)
• Stronger than standard paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Can cause drowsiness - do not drive or operate machinery after taking
• Should only be used short term

Solpadeine tablets

• Combination of paracetamol and codeine
• Used for moderate to severe pain when other painkillers haven't worked
• May cause constipation or drowsiness
• Should not be taken for more than 3 days without medical advice

Co-codamol tablets

• Contains paracetamol and low-dose codeine (usually 8mg)
• Used for short-term relief of moderate pain
• Only available from pharmacies - speak to a pharmacist before use
• Can be addictive with long-term use

Ibuprofen gel

• Topical NSAID for localised pain relief
• Applied directly to the skin over sore muscles and joints
• Useful for sports injuries, back pain, and arthritis
• Lower risk of stomach side effects compared to tablets

Voltarol Back & Muscle Pain Relief Gel

• Contains diclofenac, a strong anti-inflammatory
• Targets back pain, sprains, and muscle aches
• Applied directly to the painful area up to 3-4 times daily
• Do not use on broken skin or with other NSAIDs

Calpol

• Liquid paracetamol for babies and children
• Helps relieve fever, teething pain, earaches, and general aches
• Dosed according to the child's age and weight
• Available in sugar-free and infant-friendly formulas

Important reminders

Always follow the dosage instructions on the label. Never take more than one medicine containing paracetamol or codeine at the same time.
Opioid-containing medicines like Paramol, Solpadeine, and co-codamol should only be used for short periods to avoid dependence.
Speak to your pharmacist or GP if you're unsure which pain relief is right for you.