I'm allergic to NSAIDS, including Ibuprofen - I come out in a rash. I tried amitriptyline, but I didn't get on with it and it's not really recommended for people for people who have had a heart attack anyway. I'm prescribed co-dydramol, which has slightly more codeine than can be bought over the counter. I'm not super-happy about taking so many painkillers, but there are times when my neuropathy in my feet and hands affects my sleep or I've overdone the walking and the tablets definitely take the edge of the pain. I have an annual medication review and nobody has ever suggested that I should buy my own. I couldn't anyway, but low strength co-codamol, which has nearly as much codeine, can be bought from a pharmacist.
It seems ridiculous that a doctor should recommend taking paracetamol long-term, but not prescribe it.