Pain is an experience that human beings dislike and try to avoid; however, it is a common complaint for which many seek medical care. Today, multiple medications are on the market for the purpose of treating varying degrees and types of pain. Usually something over the counter is sufficient for minor aches and pains or an occasional headache, while other drugs for intractable and chronic pain require a doctor's prescription. Additionally, physicians that specialize in pain management may be consulted on cases where typical pain treatment has been unsuccessful.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Medicines for pain that do not require a physician's prescription are over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers or analgesics and include the group referred to as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Some examples of this basic and commonly used group include Advil, Aleve, aspirin, and Motrin. In addition to reducing pain, NSAIDs also are effective for reducing fever and alleviating inflammation in chronic conditions such as bursitis, osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Long-term use of these OTC products may cause gastric problems. Tylenol also is sold OTC and helps reduce mild pain; however, it is not an anti-inflammatory medication. Tylenol in large quantities can produce toxic effects on the liver, so long-term use needs to be monitored.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are similar to NSAIDs in that they have anti-inflammatory properties and therefore can aid in reducing acute or chronic pain episodes. Available with a prescription, this group can be taken by mouth or by injection. Examples of this class are Medrol and Prednisone.
Narcotics
Narcotic or opioid analgesics are the stronger category of pain drugs that are prescribed for severe pain that is not relieved by commonly used analgesics. Narcotics operate directly on the central nervous system, thus they are used only after other methods of treatment have been exhausted and when the benefits are perceived as stronger than the potential risks. While they are effective in pain control, they are dangerous in terms of addiction, especially when they are used for a long period; consequently, one may need to reduce usage gradually in order to avoid withdrawal effects. Examples of narcotics include Duramorph, Lortab, Demerol, Tylenol with codeine, Oxycontin, and Dilaudid.
