Pain medication

Pain medication

Many people will take some form of medication for their pain as part of their pain management. However, what suits one person and one type of pain may not suit another. When assessing which medication is right for you, your pain management consultant will take into account lots of factors: your type of pain, what other medications you already take, any allergies, possible side effects of medications, your preferences, your past medical history, and any other physical or mental health problems you may have.

When you meet with your consultant, he or she will individually assess you, and identify which medication and which dose is most likely to be effective.

If you want to know more about medication, or have any concerns about side effects, you can discuss this with your consultant at your appointment.

It is important that you take your medication as prescribed, otherwise it will be much less effective. Take it regularly, in the dose (amount) prescribed, and do not stop it or change it without talking to your consultant or GP first.

If you are unsure about what you should be taking, how often, or in what dose, always check with a medical professional. Make sure you do not take more than the recommended dose, as this could have unwanted side effects.

Pain medication is always most effective when it is combined with other self-help techniques for managing pain, such as pacing, relaxation and stretch.