Painkiller
Painkiller
A Painkiller (pronunciation: /ˈpeɪnˌkɪlər/), also known as an analgesic, is a type of medication used to relieve pain. The term "painkiller" is derived from the English words "pain" and "killer", indicating its primary function to alleviate or "kill" pain.
Etymology
The term "painkiller" is a compound word formed from "pain", derived from the Old French peine, from Latin poena meaning "punishment, penalty" in Latin, and "killer", derived from the Old English cwellere meaning "killer, murderer".
Types of Painkillers
There are several types of painkillers, each working in a different way. The most common types include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen)
- Opioids
- Corticosteroids
Usage
Painkillers are used to manage a range of pain levels, from minor aches and pains to severe chronic pain. They can be used for a variety of conditions, including headache, toothache, arthritis, and post-operative pain. Some painkillers can be bought over the counter, while others require a prescription from a healthcare professional.
Side Effects
Like all medications, painkillers can have side effects. These can range from mild, such as nausea or dizziness, to severe, such as addiction or overdose. It's important to use painkillers as directed by a healthcare professional to minimize the risk of side effects.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Painkiller
- Wikipedia's article - Painkiller
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