Painkillers or people-killers? Painkillers can be divided into two groups, non-narcotic analgesics which can be purchased over the counter (Tylenol, Advil, etc) narcotic analgesics which require a prescription (morphine, codeine, vicodin, oxycodone, hydrocodone and meperidine).

What are the positive attributes of painkillers? Reduce pain, whether it is of low, moderate or high level. Painkillers don’t raise blood pressure in men, like they do in women. Easily attainable Help people relax

What is the history of use? Aspirin – created in 1897 by Felix Hoffman Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – discovered in 1899 by Karl Morner; marketed by McNeil Laboratories in 1953 For over 50 years, the only anti-inflammatory drug available was aspirin. However, this drug caused serious side effects when taken in large doses or for long periods of time. The minor side effects normally experienced with taking aspirin became extremely serious, such as stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding. Ibuprofen was authorized to be sold over-the-counter in the 1980s and has become the most well known of all the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs available. Its use has become very widespread and is, in many cases, used in preference to other painkillers, due to the reduced side effects of ibuprofen.

What does the drug do to the body? When abused, painkillers can lead to dependence, tolerance and addiction. Immediate Possible Effects Drowsiness Nausea and/or vomiting Stomach pain Loss of balance Laboured breathing Dizziness Lightheadedness Loss of appetite Blurred vision Impaired co-ordination Respiratory depression Coma or death due to overdose Long Term Effects Kidney and liver problems Decreased sex drive Painful or frequent urination Menstrual irregularities Ulcers Addiction Abnormal restlessness

What are the dangers of abuse? Anxiolysis (a drug-induced state where patients respond normally to verbal commands. Coordination and cognitive function may be impaired.). Central Nervous System effects Heart Problems Potential for a dangerous or fatal drug overdose

Is abuse common? More than 6 million Americans abuse prescription drugs, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. (2007) One in 10 teenagers admits to abusing painkillers, such as Vicodin and Oxycontin. Painkillers cause more overdoses than cocaine and heroin combined.

What can be done to reduce abuse? New drugs are being developed to help prevent addiction and withdrawal symptoms in patients. This will help reduce the number of people who begin taking drugs for legitimate reasons (such as surgery or childbirth, etc) and end up being addicted to painkillers. Increased awareness, new medications used to treat painkiller abuse and new therapies offer hope for people struggling with painkiller abuse.

Works Cited