Welche Schmerzmittel gibt es There are three main types of pain relievers: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), paracetamol, and opioids. Everyone works differently. Most people need to take pain medication for a few days or weeks at most, but some people need to take them for a long time. You can buy some pain relievers from pharmacies; This includes some NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and some weak opioids (codeine or dihydrocodeine). If you buy strong pain relievers without a prescription that contain weak opioids and you have to take them for more than three days, you must discuss this with your pharmacist or doctor.