Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is a potential consequence of the repeated administration of opioids?
What is a potential consequence of the repeated administration of opioids?
Which class of drugs is primarily recommended for managing neuropathic pain?
Which class of drugs is primarily recommended for managing neuropathic pain?
What is a preferred form of analgesic during a migraine attack due to reduced peristalsis?
What is a preferred form of analgesic during a migraine attack due to reduced peristalsis?
What is a contraindicated condition for the use of triptans and ergotamine in migraine treatments?
What is a contraindicated condition for the use of triptans and ergotamine in migraine treatments?
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Which side effect is most common during the initial stages of opioid treatment?
Which side effect is most common during the initial stages of opioid treatment?
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Which of the following statements about paracetamol is true?
Which of the following statements about paracetamol is true?
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What is the maximum amount of paracetamol an adult should take in 24 hours?
What is the maximum amount of paracetamol an adult should take in 24 hours?
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Which of the following combinations includes an opioid analgesic?
Which of the following combinations includes an opioid analgesic?
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What potential side effect can result from low-dose opioid analgesics in compound preparations?
What potential side effect can result from low-dose opioid analgesics in compound preparations?
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Which of the following trade names is for paracetamol combined with caffeine and codeine?
Which of the following trade names is for paracetamol combined with caffeine and codeine?
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Study Notes
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Refer to chapter Nine for comprehensive details on NSAIDs.
Paracetamol
- Exhibits analgesic and antipyretic properties; lacks anti-inflammatory effects.
- Safe for use in children; however, overdosing can lead to severe hepatic damage.
- Recommended maximum dosage: 1g (typically 2 tablets of 500mg) at once; not exceeding 8 tablets (4g) in 24 hours.
- Compound analgesics with paracetamol (e.g., 8mg codeine phosphate) are common, but benefits are unproven.
- Low opioid doses in compounds can lead to side effects like constipation and complicate overdose treatment.
- Various trade names include Panadol, Algesic®, and Saridon, with multiple dosage forms (tablets, capsules, syrup).
Opioid Analgesics
- Primarily for moderate pain; repeat use can result in dependence and tolerance.
- Codeine and dextropropoxyphene treat less severe pain, often combined with non-opioid analgesics.
- Morphine indicated for severe acute/chronic pain, including cancer pain.
- Tramadol has a lower incidence of typical opioid side effects but is subject to misuse.
- Common side effects: nausea, vomiting (especially initially), and constipation.
- Use caution with patients with respiratory issues (e.g., COPD, asthma).
Neuropathic Pain
- Results from damage to neural tissue; typically managed with tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) or antiepileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, gabapentin, pregabalin).
- Opioid analgesics may also provide relief for neuropathic pain.
Antimigraine Drugs
- Acute migraine treatment varies based on prior responses and attack severity.
- Simple analgesics (aspirin, paracetamol, or NSAIDs) effective, especially in soluble forms due to reduced peristalsis during attacks.
- Concomitant antiemetics (e.g., cyclizine) may be necessary due to associated nausea.
- If simple analgesics fail, specific treatments (e.g., triptans like sumatriptan) are utilized.
- Avoid ergotamine due to significant side effects and contraindications in ischemic heart disease.
- Strict adherence to maximum recommended ergotamine doses is crucial to prevent overdose.
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Description
This quiz covers key concepts related to analgesics, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol. Learn about their effects, dosage guidelines, and important safety information. Perfect for students studying pharmacology or healthcare professionals.
