Medication on Sabbath for Toothaches
Question
I occasionally suffer from severe toothaches that prevent me from falling asleep. Am I allowed to take painkillers on Sabbath so that I can sleep (Optalgin and the like)?
Answer
Shalom!
The rule regarding medication on Sabbath is that if it concerns a local pain, it is forbidden. However, if it concerns a pain that weakens the entire body, or one needs to lie down because of it, it is permitted.
If a person is unable to fall asleep, it is considered a pain that weakens the entire body, and it is permitted.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chayim, Section 328
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