You can take paracetamol with NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, or with another painkiller called codeine. If you have problems such as lower back pain, or osteoarthritis, taking paracetamol alone may not be the most effective treatment. Though paracetamol is safe for most people, your doctor may advise against using it if you have another health issue. It should start working within the hour and last for around five hours. You can take paracetamol as a tablet, capsule, liquid, or as tablets that dissolve in water. Paracetamol is used to reduce fever and can help manage mild to moderate aches and pain. If over-the-counter drugs haven’t improved your pain your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication or another type of treatment.

Taking other over-the-counter drugs for longer than ten days without guidance from a healthcare professional, could increase your risk of side effects such as problems with your stomach, heart, liver, or kidneys. Painkillers containing codeine should only be taken for three days at most without medical advice.

have a condition affecting your connective tissue, such as lupus.

drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week.

have had problems with your heart, liver, kidneys, blood pressure, or circulation.

have had ulcers or bleeding in your stomach.

have problems with your liver or kidneys.

Seek advice from a pharmacist or healthcare professional before taking them if you: However, some people may need to be cautious. Most people can use over-the-counter pain relief.

Your healthcare professional may also recommend using these drugs under their guidance over the long term, to help manage your condition. compound painkillers – co-codamol, paracetamol and ibuprofen, ibuprofen and codeine.NSAIDs – ibuprofen, aspirin, and diclofenac gel.They are often recommended for managing mild to moderate pain yourself, over a short period of time. Some painkillers and NSAIDs are available to buy from pharmacies, shops, or supermarkets.

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