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Common knowledge would tell you that all pain medications are the same, when in fact, there are several different classifications. Pain killers such as Acetaminophen and Iubprofen (which can be found over-the-counter) work by inhibiting an enzyme known as cyclooxygenase, this specific enzyme helps fatty acids reach a chemical in the body called prostaglandins (which produces pain, inflammation and fevers etc.) By blocking cyclooxygenase you therefore reduce the pain. Now, on the other hand, Narcotic pain killers like hydrocodone, oxycodone and morphine work by changing the way your body percieves pain. This type of medication is usually found in a combination that includes Acetaminophen or Iubprofen.

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14y ago

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