Guide
What to take for pain and fever
Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-13 · How we create our content
Painkillers and fever reducers relieve pain (headache, toothache, muscle aches) and lower temperature. Different active ingredients have different characteristics and contraindications. Below are the most commonly used ones; choose an ingredient to compare products and prices.
This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
Commonly used active ingredients
Paracetamol is widely used for pain and fever and is usually well tolerated at recommended doses. Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs also have an anti-inflammatory effect but are not suitable for all patients. Metamizole (analgin) and acetylsalicylic acid are also used, but come with specific restrictions.
Important when using
Do not exceed the daily dose and do not combine products with the same active ingredient. Some ingredients are unsuitable in certain conditions (e.g. stomach problems, pregnancy, children). Some active substances carry specific risks with stomach disease, pregnancy, in children, or with cardiovascular disease. If in doubt, consult a pharmacist or doctor.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for severe or persistent pain, fever lasting more than a few days, pain after an injury, or if you suspect drug interactions or have accompanying conditions.
Commonly used active ingredients
Pick an ingredient to see products and prices.
Related categories
Products with current prices
Lowest prices from online pharmacies in this guide's categories — cheapest first.
Загряващ пластир за облекчаване на менструални болки x 1 бр, Huainan Hall
HUAINAN HALL · 1 бр
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Охлаждащ гел пластир (при фебрилни състояния ) с действие до 8 часа x 1 бр., Huainan Hall
HUAINAN HALL · 1 бр.
БЕБЕЛАН / BEBELAN НАТУРАЛНА ВОДА ЗА БЕБЕТА 500МЛ
БЕБЕЛАН · 500МЛ
СПИРТ САЛИЦИЛОВ 1% 100 МЛ
СПИРТ · 100 МЛ
ГОЛИА АКТИВ / GOLIA ACTIVE БОНБОНИ ЕКСТРА СТРОНГ Х 24БР
PERFETTI · 24БР
КАМШИК СТРЪК 50ГР. БИЛЕК
BILEC HERBS & HERBAL · 50ГР.
Frequently asked questions
Which painkiller should I choose — paracetamol or ibuprofen?
Both are widely used for pain and fever but work differently. Paracetamol is usually well tolerated and a first choice for many patients, while ibuprofen also has an anti-inflammatory effect but is unsuitable with stomach problems and some kidney or cardiovascular conditions. The choice depends on accompanying conditions and tolerance — if in doubt, ask a pharmacist.
Can I combine several painkillers?
Paracetamol and ibuprofen are sometimes alternated for persistent fever, but only on the judgement of a pharmacist or doctor — especially in children, pregnancy or chronic disease. Do not take two products with the same active ingredient at once (e.g. two paracetamol-containing forms), as that easily exceeds the safe daily dose. Metamizole (analgin) and acetylsalicylic acid have their own restrictions and are not routinely combined with other painkillers without medical judgement.
Why is the use of metamizole (analgin) restricted?
Metamizole is an effective remedy for pain and fever but carries a rare risk of a blood disorder (agranulocytosis), which is why some countries restrict it or require a prescription. It should not be taken long-term without a doctor's judgement — if in doubt, consult a pharmacist or doctor.
Is acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) safe for everyone?
Acetylsalicylic acid is not suitable for children and adolescents with a viral infection (risk of Reye's syndrome), and with stomach problems, blood-clotting disorders or certain chronic diseases its use should be discussed with a doctor. Check the leaflet for contraindications before use.
For how many days is it safe to take a painkiller without seeing a doctor?
Over-the-counter painkillers and fever reducers are intended for short, symptomatic use — up to a few days. If the pain or fever does not settle, gets worse, or you find yourself needing them almost daily for a longer period, see a doctor to establish the cause.
What should I bear in mind during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Not all painkillers are suitable in pregnancy and breastfeeding — for example, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs are generally avoided, particularly in the later trimesters, without explicit medical advice. The choice of a suitable medicine and dose in these situations should be made together with a doctor or pharmacist.