2025/06/24
Pain is an inevitable part of life, but the way we manage pain can make all the difference in how we recover and go about our daily activities. Whether you or a family member is suffering from a persistent headache, muscle soreness, or stomach cramps, finding the right pain relief ensures you can get back to feeling your best. There are many forms of pain relief available, including medicines like Adco-Napamol®, ActiPatch®, and Scopex®. Each of these products is designed to target different kinds of pain, and understanding how they work will help you make the best decision for your needs.
Pain can take many forms, from mild discomfort to debilitating agony. Headaches can range from mild tension headaches to severe migraines.
Adco-Napamol®, used to treat pain,3 contains paracetamol which reduces discomfort without causing stomach irritation.189,190 This makes it a great option for those who need quick and reliable relief while continuing with their daily activities. Paracetamol is used for the relief of headaches, tension headaches, fever, toothache, and migraines.189


Unfortunately, not all pain is as simple to remedy as a headache. Muscle pain, joint discomfort, and injuries require different approaches. In cases where muscle strain or inflammation is the cause, ActiPatch® offers a drug-free alternative that works through pulsed shortwave therapy (PSWT).1 This technology is clinically proven to modulate nerve activity and reduce pain at its source.1 Unlike oral painkillers that may have side effects, ActiPatch® provides targeted pain relief directly at the affected area.1 It is particularly useful for individuals experiencing chronic pain, arthritis, back pain, or post-injury muscle soreness, and has been proven to improve sleep and quality of life.66,67 Because ActiPatch® is non-invasive and does not rely on pharmaceuticals, it is also a great choice for those looking to minimise their medication intake or avoid potential side effects associated with painkillers.
Most stomach pain and cramps are temporary and not serious, often caused by digestive issues such as gas.171 This is where a medicine like Scopex® can help you. Scopex® contains hyoscine butylbromide, an antispasmodic medication that works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the digestive tract.13,14 Unlike traditional pain relievers, which may only dull the pain, Scopex® targets the root cause of stomach cramps by preventing the involuntary muscle contractions that lead to discomfort.13,14 This makes it an effective option for those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion, or stomach cramps caused by stress, gas buildup, or infections.171 Additionally, Scopex® is available in both tablet and syrup forms, making it accessible for both adults and young children (from one month old) who experience stomach pain.14

Deciding between Adco-Napamol®, ActiPatch®, and Scopex® depends entirely on the type of pain you are experiencing. If you are struggling with a headache, fever, or mild pain, paracetamol-based medication like Adco-Napamol® is your best option.3 It provides relief without causing drowsiness, making it suitable for adults and children.3 On the other hand, if your pain stems from muscle tension, arthritis, or post-injury discomfort, ActiPatch®'s non-drug pain therapy can be a great long-term solution.1 Unlike pills, which work systemically, ActiPatch® targets localised pain areas, helping to provide continuous relief.1 For abdominal cramps or digestive pain, Scopex® offers specialised relief that other standard pain relievers can't provide, as its active ingredient works directly to relax stomach muscles and reduce cramping.13,14
Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.
As well as choosing the right pain relief option, it is also important to take preventative measures to minimise pain in the first place. Simple lifestyle changes such as staying hydrated, maintaining proper posture and getting regular exercise, managing stress, and getting enough rest can go a long way.183 Additionally, understanding what triggers your pain - whether it be stress-induced tension headaches, post-exercise soreness, or specific foods that cause stomach cramps - can help you avoid unnecessary discomfort.
The right pain relief isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, but about choosing the solution that best fits your symptoms and lifestyle. Whether you need fast-acting headache relief, long-term muscle pain therapy, or targeted stomach cramp medicine, the options mentioned in this article offer reliable solutions to help keep you feeling your best.
If pain persists despite using these treatments, or if symptoms worsen over time, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. Sometimes, pain can be a sign of an underlying health condition that requires medical attention. By combining the right pain relief options with healthy habits and proactive pain management, you can take control of your well-being and minimise discomfort effectively.
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Adcock Ingram Limited. Co. Reg. No. 1949/034385/06. Private Bag X69, Bryanston, 2021, South Africa. Customer Care: 0860 ADCOCK/232625 www.adcock.com 04.10.20251000001855. April 2025.