Pain relief medicines

For pain such as backpain or headaches, simple painkillers such as paracetamol and anti-inflammatory agents work best but can have potential side effects, so you need to weigh up the pros and cons.

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Pain relief after surgery

Pain after an operation is a common problem but there is no need for you to be in a lot of pain. Pain relief after surgery is usually safe and effective.

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Nerve pain treatments

Treating nerve pain can be difficult, but underlying conditions can often be managed. Here’s how to control nerve pain, and a list of pain clinics.

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Chronic pain

Chronic pain continues long after your body should have completely healed. Learn more about living with chronic pain and how to manage it.

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Codeine no longer available over the counter from Feb 1

Pain-relief medicines that contain codeine will no longer be available without a doctor's prescription from 1 Feb 2018. Here’s what you need to know.

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Tramadol

Tramadol is a pain relief medicine. This page explains what tramadol is used for, how it works, its risks and other treatment options available in its place.

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Osteoarthritis treatment

Information on osteoarthritis treatment options and medicines. Plus links to trusted resources.

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Codeine

Codeine is a medicine that relieves pain and reduces coughing.

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Peripheral nerve block (lower limb)

A peripheral lower limb nerve block can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after the operation.

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Endone

Endone is used to relieve moderate or severe pain, such as after surgery or an injury. It's safe to take it under the direction of a doctor. Here’s how to take it and possible side effects.

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TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)

TENS machine delivers a small electrical current to the body through electrodes attached to the skin. TENS, is a form of pain relief without medicine. Find out more about TENS.

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Nerve pain medication

There are many different types of medicines used to help ease nerve pain. Find out more about what medicines to take from a trusted source.

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Recovering from ovarian cancer surgery

Many women with ovarian cancer will have major surgery and will usually stay in hospital for up to a week after surgery for ovarian cancer. Learn how to manage with ovarian cancer.

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Headache medication

Most people have headaches occasionally. Find out what can cause them and how you can treat different types of headaches.

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Medicinal cannabis

Medicinal cannabis (medical marijuana) is highly regulated in Australia. Learn how it might be used to help relieve the symptoms of certain medical conditions.

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Back pain diagnosis and treatment

Find out how a doctor diagnoses the cause of back pain and how to treat it, including with pain relief medication, physical therapy, acupuncture and self-care.

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Anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs)

Anti-inflammatory medicines can be used to relieve pain, reduce redness and swelling (inflammation), or treat a fever.

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Spinal anaesthetic

A spinal anaesthetic can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after an operation or procedure.

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Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a type of anti-inflammatory pain reliever. It is a medicine that treats fever and pain caused by inflammation. It belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs.

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Paracetamol

You can take paracetamol for mild to moderate pain. Here’s some information on how paracetamol works, when you should not take it and possible side effects.

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Children's medicines

Children don't always need medicine to get over an illness, but if you do need to give medicine, here are some useful tips.

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Pain relief during labour

Learn about the different ways to relieve pain during childbirth, and how your support person can help you.

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Complications of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis can result in additional complications. Find out about complications of osteoarthritis.

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Arthritis

Learn more about this common condition that causes pain and inflammation within the joints. Check out our guide on arthritis.

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Prescription addiction can happen to anyone

Prescription medicines are responsible for more than 2 in 3 accidental drug-related deaths. Here's what you need to know about prescription addiction.

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Getting the most out of your pharmacist

Pharmacists are qualified medicines experts who provide advice and counselling on products and general healthcare. Learn how community pharmacists can help you.

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6 New Year’s resolutions worth keeping

Instead of joining a gym, cutting out carbs or attempting New Year's resolutions that are hard to stick to, these practical and doable health tweaks can make a big difference.

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Asthma and pregnancy

Most asthma medicines have been shown to be extremely safe for both you and your developing baby but check with your doctor if taking oral corticosteroids.

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