Headache is one of the most common disorders and often to relieve it, analgesics are used. But between Brufen, Oki and Tachipirina, which one to choose? Here are the advice of a pharmacist to orient themselves between these drugs and use them safely and effectively
The heachache It is a very common and often particularly annoying disorder, which can negatively affect the quality of the day. Many try first of all to relieve it with natural remedies such as rest, hydration, relaxation techniques, essential, phytotherapy or other oils, but when they do not work, the temptation is to resort to a drug. But which one to choose?
Ibuprofen, paracetamol, ketoprofen, nimesulide: there are many active ingredients available in the pharmacy. However, not everyone is suitable for any type of headaches and some require particular precautions.
To Altroconsumothe Pharmacist Irene Pignata He explained pros and cons of the most used drugs against headaches, based on the most updated medical guidelines and scientific studies. The expert first recalled that:
In case of headaches, there is no better painkiller and that works for everyone. Everyone has their headache and ends up finding the drug that works best for itself. Although advertising tells us that there is a specific medicine for each type of headache, in reality many can be effective in different situations. Before running to the pharmacy, check if you already have something in the house that could be fine. And if it works, do not change it just because a novelty has come out: it is often the same active ingredient, only with a different label.
Let’s now see the main specifications of each drug.
Brufen
Brufen is a drug based on ibuprofen, an active non -steroid anti -inflammatory ingredient (NSAIDs). It is not only useful for relieving headaches, but also for muscle pain, arthritis, fever and inflammation in general. It acts by blocking the substances responsible for pain and inflammation.
When to use it?
Brufen is indicated above all if the headache is accompanied by inflammation or muscle pain. It is also effective in case of migraine.
Contraindications: It is not recommended for those suffering from gastric ulcers, kidney problems or allergies to fans. It can irritate the stomach, so it is better to take it on a full stomach.
Oki
Oki contains ketoprofen, another very powerful fans, with a rapid and intense effect against pain and inflammation. The lowest dosages (40 mg) are of free sale while for higher dosages (such as the classic Oki, 80 mg) the prescription is needed.
When to use it? It is indicated in case of severe headaches, migraine, joint pain or intense muscle.
Contraindications: Similar to Brufen, it is not recommended in case of gastric, renal problems or allergies to fans. It should be taken with caution and never for long periods without consulting the doctor.
Tachipirine
Tachipirine contains paracetamol, an analgesic and antipyretic that acts on the central nervous system to relieve pain and lower the fever. It has no anti -inflammatory effect.
When to use it? It is the best choice if the headache is not linked to inflammation or if you suffer from gastric problems, because it is more delicate on the stomach. Also ideal for children and pregnant women (always on medical advice).
Contraindications: Be careful not to exceed the recommended doses, because a paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage.
Aspirin, Aulin, Voltadvance & Co
In addition to the best known Brufen, Oki and Tachipirina, there are other bench drugs (and not) that can be used against headaches, but with greater caution.
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)
It is also effective against headaches, but only to dosages above 400 mg. It is recommended to use it at the minimum effective dose and for no more than 3-5 days. It is contraindicated in case of gastric problems, ulcers, coagulation disorders, pregnancy and children under 12 years of age.
There is no need to buy it.
Aulin (Nimesulide)
It is a fan indicated only for acute and episodic pains (like a severe headache), to be used for a maximum of 15 days and only if the other fans do not work or are contraindicated. It is only available with a recipe, as it can cause serious liver damage.
Voltadvance, Flectorgo (diclofenac)
Often used for muscle pain, they are also suitable for headache according to the illustrative leaflet. The dosages below 25 mg are on the bench; For higher dosages you need a recipe. These too can irritate the stomach.
Novalgina (Metamizolo)
It is a very powerful pain reliever and antipyretic, to be used only on a prescription and for short periods, because it can cause serious side effects on the blood (agranulocytosis). It reserves for cases of strong non -controllable pain with other drugs.
Then remember very important precautions:
Contraindications
As he remembers Altroconsumo:
A frequent and prolonged use of painkillers can paradoxically cause a chronic headache, known as Medication overuse Headache or rebound headache. It happens to those who often use the painkillers for recurring headaches, but also to those who take them daily for other types of pain: once the effect is finished, a new headaches that require to take a tablet and so on. The body therefore develops a sort of dependence on the drug, which can only cease with the suspension of the responsible drug, under medical supervision.
