Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol

NSAIDs include ibuprofen and naproxen. They can help with some types of pain, such as tummy pain or bone pain. Paracetamol can also help with pancreatic cancer pain, even if the pain is bad.

Paracetamol and NSAIDs can be taken with opioid painkillers or with other types of pain relief.

How are these painkillers taken?

Paracetamol is normally taken as a tablet. It is also available as a liquid or can be given by injection if you have problems swallowing tablets.

Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking paracetamol or NSAIDs. Don’t take more than the dose they give you. For example, too much paracetamol can damage the liver.

NSAIDs can cause side effects which include stomach problems and runny poo (diarrhoea), so you should take them after food. There is also a risk that they could cause stomach ulcers. Your doctor or nurse may give you medicine to prevent stomach ulcers if they think you are at high risk.

Medicines you buy from the pharmacy or supermarket, like cold and flu medicines, often include paracetamol or NSAIDs. Always check with the pharmacist or your doctor before taking them so that you don’t take too much by mistake.

Updated February 2019

To be reviewed February 2021