

You should feel some relief within an hour of using NSAIDs, but it can take several days or weeks before you feel the full benefit. NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are recommended for short-term relief from pain, fever, and swelling or stiffness around your bones and joints.
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If paracetamol isn’t helping, a healthcare professional may recommend other treatments, such as a programme of exercise, physiotherapy, or a stronger type of pain relief. Taking too much paracetamol can cause liver failure. However, be careful if you’re taking medicines for migraines, coughs, colds and flu, or compound painkillers, because these drugs often already contain paracetamol. You can take paracetamol with NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, or with another painkiller called codeine. If you have problems such as lower back pain, or osteoarthritis, taking paracetamol alone may not be the most effective treatment. Though paracetamol is safe for most people, your doctor may advise against using it if you have another health issue. It should start working within the hour and last for around five hours. You can take paracetamol as a tablet, capsule, liquid, or as tablets that dissolve in water. Paracetamol is used to reduce fever and can help manage mild to moderate aches and pain. If over-the-counter drugs haven’t improved your pain your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication or another type of treatment. Taking other over-the-counter drugs for longer than ten days without guidance from a healthcare professional, could increase your risk of side effects such as problems with your stomach, heart, liver, or kidneys. Painkillers containing codeine should only be taken for three days at most without medical advice.

They are often recommended for managing mild to moderate pain yourself, over a short period of time. Some painkillers and NSAIDs are available to buy from pharmacies, shops, or supermarkets.
