3.4.2 Painkillers

• Painkillers work by blocking pain signals
• Match the painkiller type with its mechanism of action:

  1️⃣ Paracetamol

  2️⃣ Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the brain

  3️⃣ NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)

  4️⃣ Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes

  5️⃣ Opioids (e.g., Morphine)

  6️⃣ Binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord
• NSAIDs like ibuprofen reduce inflammation.


  True
• What are painkillers used for?

  Relieve pain and discomfort
• What are common examples of over-the-counter painkillers?

  Paracetamol and ibuprofen
• What is a common side effect of paracetamol if used incorrectly?

  Liver damage
• Opioids carry a high risk of addiction
• What enzyme does paracetamol inhibit to reduce pain?

  Prostaglandin synthesis
• How does paracetamol reduce fever?

  Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis
• Order the painkillers based on their mechanism of action:

  1️⃣ Paracetamol: Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the brain

  2️⃣ NSAIDs: Block COX enzymes to reduce prostaglandin production

  3️⃣ Opioids: Bind to opioid receptors to block pain signals
• NSAIDs are effective for reducing swelling and inflammation.


  True
• What are common examples of over-the-counter painkillers?

  Paracetamol and ibuprofen
• The three main types of painkillers are paracetamol, NSAIDs, and opioids
• What are common side effects of NSAIDs?

  Gastrointestinal issues, heart risks
• What type of pain is paracetamol most effective for?

  Mild headaches, muscle aches
• What is the primary benefit of NSAIDs in treating pain?

  Reduces inflammation
• Opioids bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord
• Order the categories of painkiller effects from mildest to most severe:

  1️⃣ Mild Pain Relief

  2️⃣ Anti-Inflammatory

  3️⃣ Severe Pain

  4️⃣ Long-term Use

  5️⃣ Overdose
• Overdosing on painkillers can be fatal.

  True
• It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before using painkillers to understand the risks
• Which enzyme do NSAIDs block to reduce inflammation?

  Cyclooxygenase (COX)
• Order the steps involved in the responsible use of painkillers:

  1️⃣ Effective pain relief

  2️⃣ Following prescription

  3️⃣ Awareness of side effects

  4️⃣ Secure storage

  5️⃣ Medical supervision
• Match the painkiller type with its use case:

  Paracetamol ↔️ Mild headaches

  NSAIDs ↔️ Arthritis

  Opioids ↔️ Severe pain after surgery
• Opioids can cause respiratory depression.


  True
• NSAIDs reduce pain by decreasing prostaglandin production
• What is a potential side effect of mild pain relief painkillers like paracetamol?

  Liver damage
• Long-term use of painkillers can lead to organ damage
• Painkillers address the underlying cause of infection.

  False
• What is the mechanism of action for paracetamol?

  Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis
• Opioids are commonly used for mild pain relief.

  False
• Match the painkiller type with its mechanism of action:

  Paracetamol ↔️ Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis

  NSAIDs ↔️ Blocks COX enzymes

  Opioids ↔️ Binds to opioid receptors
• What is a potential side effect of long-term paracetamol use?

  Liver damage
• What are common side effects of opioids?

  Constipation, nausea, addiction
• Liver failure is a potential risk of high-dose paracetamol use.

  True
• Match the management strategy with its benefit:

  Following Prescription ↔️ Effective pain control

  Regular Reviews ↔️ Adjust dosage if needed

  Medical Supervision ↔️ Holistic pain management

  Secure Storage ↔️ Prevents misuse