Pain is a common experience that can affect your quality of life. Whether it's acute pain from an injury or chronic pain from a long-term condition, managing pain effectively is crucial for your well-being. At your local pharmacy, you can find expert advice and a range of treatment options to help you manage pain safely and effectively.

Understanding pain

Pain can be classified into two main types: acute pain and chronic pain. Acute pain is usually short-term and often results from injury or surgery. Chronic pain persists for longer periods (more than three months) and can be more complex to manage.

Patient in pain

Managing pain

Speak to your community pharmacist about how they can help you manage your pain.

After consultation, the pharmacist can offer pain management options and if necessary, refer you to other health professionals who can best assist you. Some of the services your pharmacist can provide you with to help manage your pain are:

  • Medication management
  • Pain management including alternative complementary therapies
  • Liaising with your doctor and other health professionals

Dependency and addiction risks

Opioid medications, such as those containing codeine or morphine, can lead to tolerance and dependence, meaning higher doses may be needed over time for the same relief. Misuse of these medicines can lead to serious health concerns and difficult withdrawal symptoms, including headaches, muscle aches, mood swings, insomnia, nausea, and diarrhoea.

If you are concerned that you, or someone you know, may be dependent on pain medication, speak to a doctor or pharmacist for support and guidance.


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Everyday health

Your local community pharmacy is your go-to destination for everyday health needs. From coughs and colds to travel health and mobility care, your community pharmacists can do more for you with expert advice and effective treatments to help you stay healthy and active. Explore our range of services to keep your family well every day.

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Vaccination

Your community pharmacist can do more for you with a wide range of vaccines available, from flu and COVID-19 to essential travel immunizations. Visit your local pharmacy to stay healthy, protected, and up-to-date with your vaccinations.

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Skin

Your community pharmacist is here to help you care for your skin, from managing common conditions like school sores, eczema, and acne to offering guidance on wound care, shingles, and sun protection. Visit your local community pharmacy for expert advice and effective solutions to keep your skin healthy every day.

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Women's health

Community pharmacists are enhancing women’s health by providing comprehensive support at every stage – from conception and contraception to bone health and beyond.

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Harm reduction & dependency

Your community pharmacist is here to help with harm reduction and dependency, offering support and resources including needle and syringe services, opioid dependency treatment, quit smoking services, and naloxone.

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My medicines

Get expert support with your medications through comprehensive reviews and management services provided by your community pharmacist. From home medicine reviews and MedsCheck consultations to dose administration aids and staged supply, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

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Chronic conditions

Get the support you need from your community pharmacist to manage chronic conditions. With expert advice, personalised medication management and tailored health services, community pharmacies empower you to take control of ongoing health challenges and improve your quality of life.

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Testing & screening

Take control of your health with convenient testing and screening services at your community pharmacy. From regular monitoring to early detection, these essential services help identify potential health risks and support proactive care. Your pharmacist is here to guide you in staying informed and making health-conscious decisions for a healthier future.

NewsLatest updates

Stay informed with the latest news, health tips, and updates from community pharmacies.

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