How many hours apart should you take pain medication?

You shouldn't take more than this amount. You can only take 2 paracetamol (500 mg) every 4 to 6 hours and no more than 8 in 24 hours.

How many hours apart should you take pain medication?

You shouldn't take more than this amount. You can only take 2 paracetamol (500 mg) every 4 to 6 hours and no more than 8 in 24 hours. Naproxen and ibuprofen work the same way in the body and have the same side effects. Ibuprofen is usually taken every 6 to 8 hours; naproxen, every 12 hours.

Aspirin works a little differently than ibuprofen and naproxen, but it has very similar side effects. The usual dose of aspirin is 500 to 1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours. Acetaminophen works a little differently than naproxen and ibuprofen, has different side effects, and can be taken every 6 to 8 hours. Oxycodone can cause serious unwanted effects if taken by adults who are not used to strong narcotic pain relievers, children, or pets.

If you have other medical conditions, ask your pharmacist to find out which pain relievers are safe for you. Long-acting oxycodone capsules or tablets should only be used by patients who have already been taking narcotic pain relievers, also called opioids. However, it's important that if you're already taking medications for another cause or have other health problems, you check with a pharmacist before taking pain relievers to treat your problem. This is especially important for older patients, who may be more sensitive to the effects of pain relievers.

If you need more pain relief, you can combine aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen with acetaminophen. Also, watch out for pain relievers that might be included in combination products, such as those used for coughs and colds.

Sarah Hughes
Sarah Hughes

Meet Sarah, the compassionate voice behind Pain Relief Tips. Hailing from Great Britain, she's dedicated to helping others find relief from discomfort. With a heart full of empathy, Sarah shares practical advice and strategies for managing pain in relatable, easy-to-understand language. Her mission is to empower individuals to take control of their well-being and find comfort. Join Sarah on her journey towards a pain-free life as she provides insights and tips to improve your quality of life.