As part of a weekly series, in association with LloydsPharmacy, Colin Dougall from LloydsPharmacy in Glasgow answers your common medicine queries…
Colin Dougall, from LloydsPharmacy in Glasgow, gives expert advice
Q: Is there anything that stops ibuprofen or paracetamol working properly?
Everyone responds differently to pain and the medication designed to treat it. For example, while ibuprofen treats pain effectively for around 60 per cent of people, in 40 per cent it won’t work well at all. This is down to their genetic make-up rather than the medicine.
The key is finding the right painkiller for you. It’s also worth noting that it can take three weeks to get the full anti-inflammatory effects of ibuprofen. Taking medicines at the same time as food can sometimes slow the rate of absorption, though some should be taken with food to minimise side-effects.
Q: Can I have a glass of wine if I’ve had a paracetamol?
It is fine to have a glass of wine, but it is important to do so within the safe limits. That means following the current health advice of no more than 14 units a week.
Both paracetamol and alcohol are processed by the liver so it’s not a good idea to put too much pressure on the organ.
If you’re going to have a drink when you’ve taken paracetamol, be sensible.
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