Written by Over-the-counter pain medications
Over-the-counter pain medications are available without a prescription and can be purchased at most drugstores and pharmacies. They are generally safe and effective for treating mild to moderate pain. However, it is important to read the label carefully and follow the directions. Taking too much of an over-the-counter pain medication can be dangerous and can lead to side effects such as stomach upset, liver damage, and bleeding.
The most common types of over-the-counter pain medications are:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. It is safe for most people to take, including children and pregnant women.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs are pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs. They are effective for treating pain caused by inflammation, such as arthritis pain and muscle pain. Common NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin.
Prescription pain medications
Prescription pain medications are stronger than over-the-counter pain medications and require a prescription from a doctor. They are used to treat moderate to severe pain. Prescription pain medications can be addictive and should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.
The most common types of prescription pain medications are:
- Opioids: Opioids are very strong pain relievers. They are often used to treat pain after surgery or injuries. Common opioids include oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), and morphine.
- Anticonvulsants: Anticonvulsants are drugs that are used to treat seizures. They are also sometimes used to treat nerve pain. Common anticonvulsants used for pain include gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica).
- Antidepressants: Antidepressants are drugs that are used to treat depression. They are also sometimes used to treat chronic pain, such as back pain and headache pain. Common antidepressants used for pain include duloxetine (Cymbalta) and amitriptyline (Elavil).
Choosing the right pain medication
The best pain medication for you will depend on the type of pain you have, the severity of your pain, and your medical history. It is important to talk to your doctor about the best pain medication for you.
If you have mild to moderate pain, over-the-counter pain medications may be all you need. However, if you have moderate to severe pain, or if your pain is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications, you may need a prescription pain medication.
Your doctor can help you choose the right pain medication for you and can monitor you for side effects.
Other pain relief strategies
In addition to pain medications, there are a number of other things that you can do to relieve pain, such as:
- Rest: Resting the affected area can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Ice and heat therapy: Applying ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time can help to reduce inflammation. Applying heat after the inflammation has subsided can help to relax muscles and reduce pain.
- Elevation: Elevating the affected area above the level of the heart can help to reduce swelling.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain.
- Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies: Some people find relief from pain through CAM therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, and yoga.
If you have pain, talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you.