Scientists from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, have found that common human painkillers significantly alter the behavior of Norway lobsters when they respond to an unpleasant stimulus. The researchers administered an analgesic drug to Nephrops norvegicus lobsters before delivering a mild electric shock, which reduced the amount of tail flipping, an escape behavior. This finding supports the growing evidence that crustaceans such as lobsters experience nociception, a physical detection of harm and a criteria that defines animal pain. The study suggests that more work needs to be done to reduce potential suffering in animals that humans have traditionally used without regard to welfare. The findings have been published in Scientific Reports.