There are many different types of pain medication, each with its own set of benefits and risks. Some medications are available over-the-counter and some must be prescribed by a doctor. Each pain medication works a little differently and patients may find that certain medications are more helpful. Each medication also has a certain type of pain that it tends to treat more effectively, and your doctor can help you decide which medicine will most likely provide you with the most effective relief.
NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are typically available over-the-counter, unless a prescription-strength dose is required. Common examples of NSAIDs are ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen. Those medications have the ability to both mask pain and suppress inflammation. NSAIDs work by affecting the way your brain receives and processes pain signals. According to Familydoctor.org, NSAIDs are particularly helpful in treating back pain, arthritis pain, earaches and pain after surgery. When used for short periods of time, NSAIDs usually do not cause side effects in healthy adults, but high doses or long-term use can cause bleeding in the stomach, increased blood pressure and kidney damage, according to Familydoctor.org.
Opioids
Opioids are prescription medications that are generally given for more severe pain. Those medications work by blocking the body's opioid receptor sites in the central nervous system, which makes it difficult for the brain to register pain. Examples of opioids are hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine and codeine. Potential side effects for opioid use include nausea and vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness and constipation. With long-term use, physical dependence and addiction can occur (opioids are usually derived from poppies, the source of illicit narcotics such as opium and heroin).
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are prescription medications that provide relief from the body's inflammatory reactions, which typically cause pain. Corticosteroids are often prescribed for allergies, asthma and arthritis. They can be administered orally, topically or by injection. Long-term corticosteroid use can cause serious complications and side effects, including, cataracts, high blood sugar, decreased immune function, osteoporosis and others, according to the Mayo Clinic. They should be prescribed in the lowest effective dose for the shortest amount of time possible.
Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants are prescription medications that have the ability to adjust the levels of the natural chemicals in the brain responsible for pain recognition and for the feeling of well-being. According to SpineUniverse.com, amitriptyline appears to be the most commonly used in the clinical setting as a pain reliever. According to Mayo Clinic, antidepressant medications generally have fewer side effects than other pain medications, especially at the low doses used for pain management, but may cause fatigue, drowziness, blurry vision, constipation and headache.
