There are a lot of different tablets that can be used and there are very many different combinations of them. The following is just one method of simple post op analgesia that I recommend.

It is possible to have excellent pain relief with over the counter pain killers that you can buy in the pharmacy or even the corner shop.

It is important to know what the actual name of the drug in the packet is and not just the brand name. I will refer to the actual drug name in all cases. You should ask your pharmacist for help in finding out what the actual drug is. The actual drug name is on the leaflet inserted in every packet. This keeps things simple and avoids using 2 of the same drugs even though they have different brand names.

You must not take any tablets that you have had an allergic reaction to in the past.

The first drug to use is Paracetamol. This is best started before the operation at a dose of Paracetamol 1g 4 times in the day. Check on the packet what 1g is but it is usually 2 tablets. As always you can check with your pharmacist if in doubt.

Continue the Paracetamol 1g 4 times a day after the operation. If you still have pain then you add a different drug as well as the Paracetamol rather than stopping the Paracetamol.

The next drug to add is Ibuprofen at a dose of 400mg 3 times a day. Again check with your pharmacist about the different brand names of this drug and the dose.

Do not take Ibuprofen if you have a history of stomach problems.

Both Paracetamol and Ibuprofen come with added Codeine and you may find these a little stronger if needed. Again ask your pharmacist.

In summary you can take

Paracetamol 1g 4 times a day

And

Ibuprofen 400mg 3 times a day

These drugs can be bought in the pharmacy and the corner shop without prescription. They will provide very good pain relief after orthopaedic surgery. If you have other pain medication at home contact me to ask if it is OK to use it. It is very likely that this medication will be fine for you.

Breandán Long