What are the risks of painkillers with long-term use?
December 28, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Jan Voigt
Dear doctor,
My name is Dennis Hoffmann and I am reaching out to you with a question regarding the risks of pain medications with long-term use.
For some time now, I have been suffering from chronic pain due to an injury I sustained a few months ago. My treating physician has prescribed me pain medication that I take regularly to alleviate the pain.
However, I am concerned about the long-term effects of these medications on my body. I have heard that pain medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can lead to stomach problems, kidney damage, and other health issues with long-term use.
I am wondering if there are alternative treatment options that carry less risk but can still effectively help with my pain. Are there perhaps natural therapies or non-pharmacological approaches that can assist with chronic pain?
I am willing to make changes to my treatment if it can help me maintain my health in the long term. I would like to hear from you about the risks associated with long-term use of pain medications and what alternatives I could consider.
Thank you in advance for your support and professional advice.
Best regards,
Dennis Hoffmann
Dear Dennis Hoffmann,
Thank you for your question regarding the risks of pain medications with long-term use. It is important to consider the potential effects of medications on the body, especially when taken over an extended period of time.
When it comes to the long-term use of pain medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, there is indeed a risk of side effects. The most common problems include stomach issues such as stomach ulcers or stomach bleeding. These medications can damage the stomach lining and lead to serious complications. Additionally, kidney damage can also occur as these organs are stressed during the metabolism of the medications.
It is important to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider to weigh the potential risks and explore alternative treatment options if necessary. There are actually various ways to treat chronic pain that carry less risk.
One possible alternative to pain medications are non-pharmacological therapies such as physiotherapy, acupuncture, TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), or relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation. These approaches can help alleviate pain and improve quality of life without taking on the risks of medications.
Furthermore, natural therapies such as herbal supplements, CBD oil, or homeopathic remedies may also help with pain relief. However, it is important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before using such remedies to ensure they are suitable for you and do not have interactions with other medications.
It is commendable that you are willing to make changes in your treatment to maintain your health in the long term. I strongly recommend discussing alternative treatment options with your doctor and developing an individualized treatment plan that meets your needs and risks.
I hope this information is helpful to you and supports you on your journey towards an effective and low-risk pain treatment. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to me.
Best regards,
Jan Voigt, MD
