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Managing pain MANAGING PAIN

Picture of a hot water bottle

Pain is not a pleasant experience, but it is a common one, so it's not surprising that many of us treat ourselves with pain relievers.

While these medicines have been around for a long time and are generally safe, they do come with risks and side effects that can make you sick.

This website contains information on how you can use pain relievers to get the best and safest pain relief.

Information about specific conditions

Acute low back pain

  • Effective ways to help back pain
  • Medicines for low back pain
  • X-rays and other scans are unlikely to help

Learn more

Chronic conditions

  • Certain conditions affect which pain relievers are safe to use
  • Always ask before using pain relievers if you take other medicines
  • Have your medicines and pain management plan reviewed regularly

Learn more


Top 5 medicinewise questions

Before taking an over-the-counter pain reliever

  • What is the best option to treat my pain?
  • What is the active ingredient in this pain reliever?
  • What do I need to tell my health professionals before taking this medicine?
  • How do I use this medicine safely and effectively?
  • What else should I do, or not do, while taking this medicine?

Date published: 2011-02-25 00:00:00

Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the date of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health professional. Health professionals should rely on their own expertise and enquiries when providing medical advice or treatment. Where permitted by law, NPS disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer.

References to brands should not be taken as an endorsement by NPS.