Question

Com.ment fonctionnent les a.nalgésiques ?​

Answer 1

We sense pain due to the transmission of a specific signal to the brain via the spinal cord. Pain relief medications work by preventing this 'pain signal' from reaching the brain. There are two main types of painkillers that are commonly used: the 'aspirin medicines' and the 'narcotic medicines.'

The Aspirin-type painkillers block the body's prostaglandins - molecules responsible for pain and swelling. Blocking prostaglandins blocks the signal at the source of the pain, as well as reducing swelling.

The Narcotic-type medicines block the pain messages in the spinal cord and the brain, and are typically used for much more severe pain relief.