Final answer:
Analgesics like acetaminophen are recommended for patients with renal colic as they provide effective pain relief without significant risk to the kidneys. NSAIDs are avoided due to potential kidney damage. For severe pain, opioids like morphine or oxycodone may be considered, with close monitoring for risks of addiction and overdose.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients with renal colic should be considered for analgesics that effectively manage pain without causing additional harm to the kidneys. While nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for pain arising from inflammation, they can be harmful to the kidneys, particularly in those over 60 or with pre-existing kidney disease. Acetaminophen can be a reasonable substitute for NSAIDs as it provides analgesic and antipyretic effects without the anti-inflammatory component. Acetaminophen is less likely to cause gastrointestinal distress and does not affect platelet aggregation, making it a safer option for pain management in renal colic patients.
However, for severe pain, stronger analgesics such as morphine or oxycodone may be necessary. These opioid analgesics are often used before and after surgical procedures to alleviate severe pain. In cases of renal colic, opioids may be used judiciously due to their potential for addiction and abuse.
It is crucial to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration to minimize the risk of addiction, abuse, and overdose, especially with prescription opioids. Moreover, overdose of acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage.