Arzneimittel: 3 Schmerzmittel-Fehler - und wie man sie vermeidet

In Germany, it is almost impossible to find a household without some form of pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), diclofenac, or naproxen. While these medications are available over-the-counter at pharmacies in limited dosages, improper use can lead to significant health risks. The Apothekerkammer Niedersachsen offers advice on how to avoid these pitfalls.

Firstly, it is crucial not to overdo it with painkillers. Using them without a doctor's prescription, even for a short period of four days in a row, is discouraged. A general guideline is to stop taking painkillers after ten days per month. Consistently exceeding this limit can lead to serious complications like stomach ulcers or kidney damage, particularly with ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen.

Paracetamol, when overused, can cause liver damage. Over time, the body may become accustomed to painkillers, leading to withdrawal symptoms such as headaches if the dose is abruptly stopped. To avoid this cycle, one must adhere to the maximum daily dosage, for instance, no more than three ibuprofen tablets (24 hours) for adults, with a maximum limit of 1200 milligrams.

When prescribed by a doctor, the dosage may be higher, but the mantra remains: use as much as necessary, but as little as possible.

Secondly, be aware of potential interactions between painkillers and other medications. Some drugs have unintended interactions that can diminish the effectiveness of the medication or cause adverse side effects. For example, low-dose aspirin used for blood thinning may reduce the blood-thinning effect of ASA, increasing the risk of blood clots.

If such medications are required simultaneously, they should be taken with sufficient time in between, typically 30 minutes apart or 8 hours apart, as advised by the Apothekerkammer Niedersachsen. Additionally, combining paracetamol with alcohol can also pose a risk to liver health, as both substances are metabolized by the liver.

Thirdly, not all painkillers are suitable for everyone. Different factors such as the nature of the pain, underlying conditions, age, and concurrent medications play a crucial role in determining the most appropriate pain reliever. It is advisable to seek professional advice from a pharmacist, especially for vulnerable groups like children, individuals with allergies, those with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, the elderly, those with kidney issues, and anyone taking multiple medications. Addressing the root cause of the pain and using targeted treatment is essential.