Can Overdosing on Painkillers Lead to Death?

Excessive intake of painkillers may pose a life-threatening risk, and it is recommended to follow the doctor's advice and take them in moderation. All medications have associated side effects, and painkillers are no exception. Long-term use of painkillers can lead to a decrease in granulocytes, chronic addiction, and have a certain impact on liver function. Patients may also experience manifestations of bone marrow suppression or significant fatigue. Medication should be chosen based on the condition, and it is advisable to take them at intervals. Regular follow-up blood tests and assessments of liver and kidney function should also be performed. In some cases, excessive use of painkillers can lead to acute liver injury, which in severe cases, can be life-threatening. Therefore, excessive intake of painkillers can also lead to patient death. The most severe cases involve opioid analgesics due to their side effects, especially respiratory depression. Therefore, for elderly patients and critically ill patients, detailed analysis of their condition and careful consideration of analgesic use are required.

1. Aspirin has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-rheumatic functions without addictive properties. It is not only used for pain relief but also for the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease and stroke. Its main side effect is gastrointestinal discomfort, which can be reduced by taking it after meals. However, aspirin is not suitable for patients with gastric and duodenal ulcers, and it should be used with caution by pregnant women and asthmatics. It should also be avoided before and after alcohol consumption.

2. Dipyrone is a combination of aminopyrine and sodium nitrite, primarily used for fever reduction and various types of pain. However, continuous use of this medication is not recommended as it may cause liver and kidney damage. It can also cause drug rash and decreased white blood cell count.

3. Indomethacin has stronger analgesic and antipyretic effects than aspirin and is effective for joint pain, muscle pain, and headaches. It can be used for headaches caused by colds, fever, occipital neuralgia, and vasculitis. Its side effects are similar to aspirin but may be more severe. Therefore, indomethacin should only be used when patients cannot tolerate aspirin.

4. Ibuprofen has a weaker analgesic effect than aspirin but has less stimulating effects on the stomach wall and is less likely to cause gastric bleeding. It can cause dizziness, tinnitus, and decreased vision. Ibuprofen sustained-release tablets, also known as Fenbid, can prolong the duration of the drug's effect and reduce the frequency of dosing.