Health

80% of Adults Are Taking Painkillers Wrong — Are You One of Them?

by Alex•May 9, 2025June 10, 2025

Painkillers, or analgesics, are among the most commonly used medications worldwide. From over-the-counter options like ibuprofen and acetaminophen to prescription opioids, these drugs are relied upon to alleviate everything from minor headaches to chronic pain. However, studies suggest that up to 80% of adults may be misusing painkillers, either by taking them incorrectly or failing to understand their risks and limitations. This widespread issue not only reduces the effectiveness of these medications but can also lead to serious health complications.

Why Proper Use of Painkillers Matters

Painkillers are designed to target specific types of pain and work in distinct ways. Misuse can result in inadequate pain relief, unnecessary side effects, or even long-term health risks such as liver damage, kidney failure, or addiction. Understanding how to use painkillers safely and effectively is crucial for maximizing their benefits while minimizing potential harm.

Common Mistakes in Painkiller Use

Ignoring Dosage Instructions
One of the most common errors is taking more than the recommended dose in an attempt to achieve faster or stronger pain relief. Overdosing can lead to severe side effects, including liver damage from acetaminophen or gastrointestinal bleeding from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
Using the Wrong Painkiller for the Pain
Not all painkillers are created equal. For example, NSAIDs are effective for inflammation-related pain, such as arthritis or injuries, while acetaminophen is better suited for headaches or fever. Using the wrong type of painkiller may result in inadequate relief.
Combining Painkillers Without Medical Guidance
Many people unknowingly combine medications that contain the same active ingredients, such as taking a cold medication with acetaminophen alongside a separate acetaminophen tablet. This can lead to unintentional overdoses.
Taking Painkillers on an Empty Stomach
Some medications, like NSAIDs, can irritate the stomach lining and should be taken with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues. Ignoring this precaution can lead to discomfort or more severe complications.
Prolonged Use Without Medical Advice
Using painkillers for extended periods without consulting a healthcare provider can lead to dependency, tolerance, or chronic health issues. For example, long-term NSAID use increases the risk of kidney damage, while prolonged opioid use can lead to addiction.
Disregarding Underlying Conditions
Pain is often a symptom of an underlying issue that requires medical attention. Masking the pain with medication without addressing the root cause can delay proper diagnosis and treatment.

The Risks of Misusing Painkillers

Liver Damage from Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen, commonly found in over-the-counter medications like Tylenol, is safe when used as directed. However, exceeding the recommended dose can cause liver toxicity, especially when combined with alcohol.
Gastrointestinal Issues from NSAIDs
NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin can cause stomach ulcers, bleeding, or perforation if taken in high doses or on an empty stomach. These risks increase with prolonged use.
Kidney Damage
Both NSAIDs and certain prescription medications can impair kidney function, particularly when taken frequently or in high doses.
Addiction and Dependency
Opioid painkillers, such as oxycodone or hydrocodone, carry a high risk of addiction. Misuse, such as taking higher doses or using them for non-medical reasons, can lead to dependency and overdose.
Masking Serious Conditions
Over-reliance on painkillers can mask symptoms of serious conditions, delaying necessary medical intervention. For example, persistent headaches might signal an underlying neurological issue that requires attention.

How to Use Painkillers Safely

Follow Dosage Instructions
Always adhere to the dosage recommendations on the label or as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Avoid the temptation to increase the dose without medical advice.
Choose the Right Medication
Select a painkiller that targets your specific type of pain. Consult a pharmacist or doctor if you’re unsure which option is best for your condition.
Be Aware of Active Ingredients
Check the active ingredients in all medications to avoid unintentional overdosing. For example, many cold and flu remedies contain acetaminophen, which could lead to exceeding the safe daily limit if combined with other medications.
Take with Food or Water
To minimize stomach irritation, take NSAIDs with food or a full glass of water.
Limit Prolonged Use
Use painkillers for short-term relief unless directed otherwise by a healthcare provider. If pain persists, seek medical advice to address the underlying cause.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects, such as liver damage from acetaminophen or stomach bleeding from NSAIDs.
Monitor for Side Effects
Pay attention to any unusual symptoms, such as nausea, dizziness, or stomach pain, and report them to your doctor immediately.

The Role of Education and Awareness

A significant reason for the widespread misuse of painkillers is a lack of awareness. Many people are unaware of the risks associated with these medications or the importance of using them correctly. Public health campaigns, healthcare provider guidance, and patient education are essential to addressing this issue.

Alternatives to Painkillers

In some cases, non-pharmacological approaches can provide effective pain relief:

Physical Therapy: For musculoskeletal pain, physical therapy can improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs can alleviate pain from injuries or inflammation.
Mind-Body Techniques: Practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help manage chronic pain and reduce reliance on medication.
Dietary Changes: Anti-inflammatory diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help manage pain from conditions like arthritis.

Conclusion

Painkillers are valuable tools for managing pain, but their misuse is a widespread issue with serious consequences. From liver damage and gastrointestinal problems to addiction and delayed diagnoses, the risks of improper use are significant. By understanding how to use painkillers safely and effectively, individuals can achieve better pain relief while protecting their health.

Education and awareness are key to reducing the prevalence of painkiller misuse. Whether through healthcare provider guidance, public health initiatives, or personal responsibility, taking the time to learn about these medications can make a profound difference.

Ultimately, pain management should be a balanced approach that includes proper medication use, lifestyle adjustments, and professional medical advice. By taking these steps, you can ensure that painkillers serve their intended purpose without compromising your well-being.