Top 10 Painkillers and How to Use Them Safely

We’ve all reached for a painkiller at some point—whether it’s a throbbing headache, menstrual cramps, joint pain, or just body aches from a long day. But not all painkillers are the same, and using them the wrong way can do more harm than good.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the top 10 most commonly used painkillers—from everyday paracetamol to stronger prescription options like tramadol. You’ll learn what they’re used for, how to take them safely and common side effects to watch for.

But before we begin…

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Always speak with a licensed healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.Talk to a healthcare professional here… or download the Pharmarun App

Pain Relief & Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Below, we break down the most-searched options and what you need to know about them:

1. Ibuprofen

Common Brands: Advil, Nurofen, Brufen
Used For: Reducing pain, fever, and inflammation (e.g., period pain, back pain, arthritis)
Side Effects: Stomach upset, ulcers (with long-term use), dizziness
Quick Tip: Take with food to reduce the risk of stomach irritation.

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2. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

Common Brands: Panadol, Tylenol, Calpol
Used For: Mild to moderate pain, fever
Side Effects: Generally safe at recommended doses, but dangerous to the liver if overdosed
Quick Tip: It’s safe for most people, including pregnant women and children (in proper doses), but don’t mix it with alcohol. 

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3. Naproxen

Common Brands: Aleve, Naprosyn
Used For: Pain from arthritis, muscle aches, menstrual cramps
Side Effects: Similar to ibuprofen—can irritate the stomach
Quick Tip: Avoid if you have a history of ulcers or are on blood thinners.

4. Tramadol

Used For: Moderate to severe pain (e.g., after surgery or injury)
Side Effects: Drowsiness, constipation, possible addiction with long use
Quick Tip: Not an over-the-counter drug—only use with a doctor’s prescription.

5. Celebrex (Celecoxib)

Used For: Arthritis-related pain and inflammation
Side Effects: Increased risk of heart attack and stroke (especially with long-term use)
Quick Tip: It’s a selective NSAID, so it’s gentler on the stomach compared to others like ibuprofen.

6. Diclofenac

Common Brands: Voltaren, Cataflam
Used For: Pain and inflammation from arthritis, migraines, and more
Side Effects: Nausea, indigestion, raised blood pressure
Quick Tip: Available in tablets and topical gels—use the gel for local pain with fewer side effects.

7. Aspirin

Used For: Pain, fever, heart health (in low doses)
Side Effects: Bleeding, especially with long use or when combined with alcohol
Quick Tip: Not suitable for children with viral infections (risk of Reye’s syndrome).

8. Co-codamol

What It Is: A combo of paracetamol + codeine
Used For: Moderate pain that isn’t relieved by regular paracetamol
Side Effects: Drowsiness, constipation, risk of dependence
Quick Tip: Often needs a prescription—don’t drive after taking it.

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9. NSAIDs (Overview)

What It Stands For: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac)
Used For: Pain + inflammation
Risks: Stomach ulcers, kidney damage, high blood pressure
Quick Tip: Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.

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10. Ketorolac

Used For: Severe short-term pain (e.g., after surgery)
Side Effects: High risk of stomach and kidney problems—prescription-only
Quick Tip: Not for long-term use—maximum 5 days recommended.