Thus, these agents should not be taken by anyone who must remain alert. In addition, narcotic painkillers should never be taken in combination with alcoholic beverages, antihistamines, other allergy or cold pills, anticonvulsants, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, or any other substance that depresses the central nervous system. Narcotics increase the effects of these drugs on the brain, and a fatal overdose can result from their combined use. The potentially addictive effect of opiates and other narcotic agents is the major drawback to their long-term use. However, overconcern about addiction has resulted in their underuse in the control of severe pain in a patient with terminal cancer.
Some painkillers have beneficial secondary effects.
For example, low-dose aspirin may help prevent a heart attack or stroke by preventing clot formation. By the same token, aspirin can cause bleeding problems. A person who suffers from a chronic pain disorder, such as arthritis, learns by trial and error how best to manage their pain. Often, finding a pleasant diversion can do wonders for alleviating pain. Vigorous aerobic exercise increases secretion of endorphins, brain chemicals that are natural painkillers.