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One drug, different results: How same painkiller saves one and puts another life at risk
28th April, 2026 05:47 PM
For most individuals, reaching for a painkiller is a natural reaction, whether it is headaches, toothache or menstrual pain, and one should expect to get some relief in a matter of minutes.
However, the reality is that taking a painkiller means entering a complex story in which the very same medication acts differently for each patient.
“Medications do not work the same on everyone,” said Dr Nish Manek, a GP practising in the UK. “There is a biological, psychological and sociological response when dealing with pain and painkillers.”
One should not underestimate the genetic factor behind pain relief medications. Small differences in the human DNA may dictate how rapidly the drug is metabolised. If the breakdown happens too quickly, then the substance fails to have any effect on the condition. In case the opposite scenario occurs, the medication becomes more dangerous to health.
Codeine, for instance, requires conversion to morphine to work. However, not all people have an efficient system for doing so. While some individuals might not feel any effect at all, others might break down the compound so fast that even the normal dosage becomes life-threatening.
Age is another variable. Just like the rest of our physiology, our body’s ability to absorb and eliminate medication also evolves as we grow older. This could result in heightened sensitivity to medication among older patients.
However, biological factors alone cannot fully account for individual differences in drug response. One’s lifestyle habits, other medical disorders, and even other drugs could potentially impact their reaction to the medicine.
However, side effects such as behavioural changes, which do not always get attention, have also been associated with common painkillers. The consequences of adverse reactions may be much more serious in other instances. According to studies, 16 per cent of patients with side effects from pain medications develop more serious problems, like internal bleeding.
Moreover, even prescription drugs, which were supposed to be safe substitutes, now come under criticism. A renowned pain specialist, Dr Marc Russo, says that the medicine he prescribes has a “two-headed nature.” In other words, the drug is beneficial only if used correctly and in accordance with medical indications.
According to specialists, the most important thing is to be attentive. The pills, which suit your friend, might harm your health. Therefore, it is necessary to follow the instructions carefully and consult your doctor if you notice any problems.
Consequently, the seemingly harmless painkiller represents a rather complex issue, combining medicine, genetics, and individual characteristics, which is why some people prefer engaging in other activities to deal with the pain. Some patients prefer listening to music to help them recover after surgery.
