More than 85 percent of all Dutch people postpone the use of painkillers for as long as possible. This is apparent from research carried out on behalf of the new, independent Painkiller Infocentrum.
The consumer survey looked at the use of over-the-counter pain relievers (painkillers that are available to consumers without a prescription). It turns out that the Dutch take a painkiller relatively late when they have pain complaints have.
The research also shows that there are a lot of questions among the Dutch about how to handle painkillers in the right way. † In fact, it is just as safe to take a painkiller immediately when you notice pain, as it is after a few hours.
What is important is safe and responsible use of painkillers. There are a number of important rules of thumb for this:
– Always read the package leaflet before use;
– Do not take painkillers for more than a few days in a row (in any case no longer than fourteen days);
– Always consult a doctor if (pain) complaints persist for more than a week.
