Painkillers
Quick reference table for painkillers.
| Name | Dose | Onset | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paracetamol | 1g up to 3 times per day | 37 minutes | 2-2.5 hours half-life | Analgesic effect increased when alternating with an NSAID (e.g. Ibuprofen) |
| Ibuprofen | 400mg up to 3 times per day | 30 minutes | 2-4 hours half-life | |
| Naproxen | 500mg twice daily | 1 hour | 12 hours | Prescription only in the UK but OTC in The Netherlands at a reduced dose
Take with Omeprazole (stomach protector) |
| Codeine | 15-30 minutes | 4-6 hours | Prescription only | |
| Dexketoprofen | Prescription only in the UK but OTC in Spain | |||
| Metamizole | 4-6 hours | Not available in the UK | ||
| Diclofenac | 50mg 3 times per day | 30 minutes | 1.2-2 hours half-life | Prescription only in the UK but OTC in The Netherlands at a reduced dose
Take with Omeprazole (stomach protector) |