Which painkiller should I take?
Most everyday pain, such as headaches, back pain, toothache and period pain, can be treated at home with painkillers you can buy from a pharmacy. The right choice depends on the type of pain, your health and any other medicines you take.
- Written by
- Longton Pharmacy
- Reading time
- 3 min read
- Last updated
- Updated
- Reviewed by
- Reviewed by Hinna Ahmed, Superintendent Pharmacist
At a glance
- Paracetamol is a good first choice for most aches, pains and fever
- Ibuprofen works well for pain with swelling, but isn't suitable for everyone
- Codeine painkillers are for short-term use only, up to 3 days
- Check labels so you don't take paracetamol from two products at once
On this page
Paracetamol
Paracetamol is a good first choice for most aches and pains, and for bringing down a high temperature. It's gentle on the stomach and suitable for most people, including during pregnancy.
Adults usually take 1 or 2 500mg tablets up to 4 times in 24 hours, leaving at least 4 hours between doses. Never take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory painkiller. It works well for pain with swelling, such as sprains, back pain, dental pain and period pain. Take it with or after food to protect your stomach.
Ibuprofen isn't suitable for everyone. Check with a pharmacist first if you:
- Have had a stomach ulcer or bleeding
- Have asthma that gets worse with anti-inflammatories
- Have heart, kidney or liver problems, or high blood pressure
- Are pregnant
- Take a blood thinner
Aspirin
Aspirin can be used for pain and fever in adults, but it shouldn't be given to children under 16. Like ibuprofen, it can irritate the stomach.
Painkillers containing codeine
Some pharmacy painkillers combine codeine with paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain that hasn't been helped by ordinary painkillers. Codeine can be addictive, so these should only be used for up to 3 days. They can also cause drowsiness and constipation.
Because of this, we ask a few questions before supplying them and limit them to one pack per order.
Taking painkillers safely
- Read the label and don't take more than the recommended dose
- Check for paracetamol in other products, such as cold and flu remedies, so you don't take it twice
- Paracetamol and ibuprofen can be taken together or alternated if one alone isn't enough, as long as each is suitable for you
- Painkiller gels can help with muscle and joint pain with less effect on the stomach
- Ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term condition
When to see a GP
- Pain that hasn't improved after a few days of painkillers
- Pain that keeps coming back
- You need painkillers on most days
Common questions
Can I take paracetamol and ibuprofen together?
Most adults can take paracetamol and ibuprofen at the same time, or alternate them, if both are suitable for you. Stick to the dose for each one and ask a pharmacist if you're unsure.
Which painkiller is best for a headache?
Paracetamol or ibuprofen work well for most headaches. Using painkillers on lots of days can cause headaches of its own, so speak to a GP if you're getting headaches often.
This guide is general information, not a substitute for advice about your own health. Always read the leaflet that comes with your medicine, and speak to a pharmacist or GP if you're unsure.
Not sure what's right for you?
Our pharmacists can help, in confidence.