English
Analgesics
What are they used for?
Analgesics act as painkillers. Those that act directly on the actual site of the osteoarthritis pain site, i.e. the joint, are called peripheral analgesics.
There are other kinds that act on the way the pain is perceived by the brain. These are called central nervous system analgesics. Their action is superior to that of the peripheral analgesics and they should only be offered if the peripheral analgesics do not succeed in relieving the pain.
“Powerful” central nervous system analgesics are only necessary for osteoarthritis on an exceptional basis. If the doctor feels the need to prescribe them, he or she will do so according to very strict usage rules.
There are other kinds that act on the way the pain is perceived by the brain. These are called central nervous system analgesics. Their action is superior to that of the peripheral analgesics and they should only be offered if the peripheral analgesics do not succeed in relieving the pain.
“Powerful” central nervous system analgesics are only necessary for osteoarthritis on an exceptional basis. If the doctor feels the need to prescribe them, he or she will do so according to very strict usage rules.
How do they work?
Taking analgesics is based on the pain: if the pain is constant, they will be taken several times at regular intervals throughout the day, generally every 6 hours. In the event of intermittent pain, they will be taken when the pain occurs. Meals have no influence on the effectiveness of analgesics which can be taken at the most appropriate time in relation to the pain.
You can see that you have an important part to play in managing your pain in order to determine the analgesics that will be of most use to you.
You can see that you have an important part to play in managing your pain in order to determine the analgesics that will be of most use to you.
What precautions need to be taken?
Peripheral analgesics are generally well-tolerated, however you need to be careful not to take more than the recommended dose indicated by your doctor and figuring on your prescription. While rare, there can be side effects from peripheral analgesics (liver problems, allergies, etc). Your doctor is aware of these and will have chosen the most appropriate drug for your particular case. The onset of side effects is unpredictable. Central nervous system analgesics may cause sleepiness, nausea, constipation and dizziness. It is important to be aware that these reactions are unpredictable and generally stop while continuing to take the drug. However, these analgesics require medical follow-ups.
Follow your doctor’s prescription to the letter and do not hesitate to ask him or her any questions that may be bothering you. Never combine analgesics on your own initiative; it is generally pointless and increases the risk of side effects.
Follow your doctor’s prescription to the letter and do not hesitate to ask him or her any questions that may be bothering you. Never combine analgesics on your own initiative; it is generally pointless and increases the risk of side effects.
