Analgesics_Presentation,uses and side-effects

All about Analgesics

1. Analgesics A Comprehensive Overview

2. Introduction • Analgesics are drugs used to relieve pain without causing loss of consciousness. • Widely used in clinical practice for acute and chronic pain management. • Classified into various types based on mechanism of action.

3. Classification of Analgesics 1. Non-opioid analgesics • NSAIDs (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Diclofenac) • Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) 2. Opioid analgesics • Morphine, Codeine, Fentanyl, Tramadol 3. Adjuvant analgesics • Antidepressants, Anticonvulsants, Corticosteroids

4. Non-Opioid Analgesics • Act by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis (COX enzyme inhibition). • Effective in mild to moderate pain. • Commonly used for headache, arthritis, fever. • Adverse effects: gastric irritation, renal impairment, bleeding risk.

5. Opioid Analgesics • Act on opioid receptors (μ, κ, δ) in CNS. • Used for moderate to severe pain. • Examples: Morphine, Fentanyl, Tramadol. • Adverse effects: respiratory depression, constipation, tolerance, dependence.

6. Adjuvant Analgesics • Not primarily analgesics but enhance pain relief. • Examples: - Antidepressants (Amitriptyline) for neuropathic pain. - Anticonvulsants (Gabapentin, Pregabalin). - Corticosteroids for inflammatory pain. • Useful in chronic and cancer pain management.

7. Clinical Uses of Analgesics • Headache and migraine • Postoperative pain • Musculoskeletal disorders (arthritis, back pain) • Neuropathic pain • Cancer pain management • Fever and inflammatory conditions

8. Rational Use of Analgesics • Choose drug based on type and severity of pain. • Start with non-opioid analgesics for mild pain. • Step-up approach (WHO analgesic ladder). • Monitor for side effects and dependency. • Combine pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods.

9. Conclusion • Analgesics are essential in pain management. • Classified into non-opioid, opioid, and adjuvant types. • Rational use ensures maximum benefit and minimal harm. • Important to tailor therapy based on patient needs.