Painkillers (aspirin, paracetamol, codeine)
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What is it?
Common painkillers (or analgesics) are mostly in tablet form. They are usually taken with water or after dissolving them in water. Paracetamol is also sold in syrup form for children. Their main uses are for headaches, colds, muscular pains and other pain from injuries.
How does it work?
There are no good reasons to expect painkillers to be helpful for depression, but many people do take them when they feel depressed.
Is it effective?
There is no evidence that aspirin or paracetamol have any effect on people's mood. Some studies suggest that codeine (which is an opiate) can have positive effects on people's mood but the studies did not use groups of people who are depressed.
Are there any disadvantages?
Painkillers can cause unpleasant side effects in some people. It is also possible to become addicted to codeine if it is taken regularly.
Where do you get it?
Common painkillers are available from pharmacists without a prescription and are sold in most supermarkets.
Recommendation
Painkillers are unlikely to be helpful for depression but can help with headaches or other pains that accompany depression. If severe pain or serious physical illness is causing depression, this should be discussed with a doctor.