Pain Medications Side Effects

Prescribed drugs such as antidepressants, tranquilizers, sedatives, stimulants and pain relief meds, are all effective medications that treat numerous health issues. In particular, pain relieving drugs help people suffering from severe pain live more comfortable and productive lives. Likewise, tranquilizers help to treat anxiety symptoms and sleep problems; and stimulant drugs benefit individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (also known as ADHD), helping them to improve their focus. However, many people remain uninformed about the serious side effects that often occur when taking prescribed painkillers.

Constipation

Constipation is one of the more irritating side effects that occurs when taking opiates. It is common for people using pain medication to also use laxatives and occasionally enemas, to help relieve their symptoms. Unfortunately, your body will not build up a tolerance to the constipation opiates may cause. Consequently, the more your pain medication dose increases, the more laxatives or stool softeners you will need.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding and Stomach Ulcers

Aspirin and NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) can damage your stomach lining and upper intestinal area resulting in stomach ulcers or painful gastrointestinal bleeding. What is more, stomach ulcers can cause weight loss and vomiting and ultimately may need surgery if not treated promptly.

Pain Relief Addiction

Painkillers such as the drug Hydrocodone are often prescribed to help deal with the effects of long-term pain. However, these types of painkillers are very addictive, especially for those individuals who take them over long periods. The Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration state that more than 6 million people in the United States misuse or abuse their drug prescriptions.

High Blood Pressure

According to studies by the AHA (American Heart Association), women who take more than 500 milligrams of non-aspirin type pain medication have twice the chance of developing high blood pressure. However, a link between higher blood pressure and women who use aspirin is yet to be found.

Bone Fractures

Recently studies conducted at The Journal of General Internal Medicine discovered that strong prescription drugs or opiates could elevate the chances of bone fractures for people 60 years and over. In addition, the risk was greater if the dose exceeded 50 milligrams.

Damage to Liver

Over the counter drugs and painkillers that contain the component acetaminophen, including the drug Tylenol, present a high danger of liver damage for users. Signs you may be suffering from liver damage include nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. If left untreated, side effects can result in complete liver failure or even death. On the other hand, the possibility of liver damage decreases if you take the painkillers according to the prescription.

Breathing Problems

People who suffer from congestive heart failure or lung disease will typically experience pain along with breathing difficulties. Using painkillers or opiates helps to relieve these symptoms and provides comfort for patients with these conditions. However, extreme caution needs to be taken when treating this type of pain. Although opioids relieve the pain associated with heart and lung conditions, it can also exacerbate any breathing problems and deteriorate the life span of patients.

Kidney Problems

Analgesic drugs and other over-the-counter drugs, including acetaminophen and ibuprofen often increase the chances of kidney problems. This is particularly an issue for people who use analgesics for longer periods or who suffer from an existing kidney condition. However, if you take the drug correctly as directed, any kidney health risks should be minimal.

Delusions and Confusion

It can be common for some individuals to suffer delusions or confusion when taking opiates. When this occurs, the dosage is usually limited to avoid any risk of the problem getting worse. However, if an individual experiences confusion from taking the drug, it does not necessarily mean they cannot try another type of opiate.