You will only be discharged once we are happy that your pain is well managed. Simple painkillers (such as paracetamol and ibuprofen) can be purchased from all supermarkets and pharmacies.
Information on managing pain using these painkillers can be found by clicking the link below.
Managing your pain effectively using Over The Counter Medicines
If you need stronger pain relief, you will be discharged home with these and instructions on how to take them. If you need further/additional pain relief following this, please contact your own GP.
You may be discharged with strong painkillers containing opioids (such as codeine, tramadol, morphine or oxycodone). Whilst these can be very helpful in the first few days after your operation, it is important to reduce and stop these medicines as soon as the pain can be managed with less strong drugs, because their long-term use can cause you significant harm.
If you have any concerns about opioid medication, please speak to your surgical team or General Practitioner. You can also find information about opioids on the [Faculty of Pain Medicine website].
Opioids Aware - Faculty of Pain Medicine
More information can be found on the British Pain Society website. - Pain Management after Surgery