Pain Medications - Relief for Various Types of Pain

Pain medications are drugs used to alleviate pain. They work by interfering with pain signals sent to the brain.
Category
Drug
Where to get
Available with a prescription from pharmacies.
Applicable for
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

pain medications FAQ


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What are the different types of pain medications?

Various over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications are available to treat chronic pain. Doctors will work closely with a person to determine the best pain medication for them. There are several levels of pain medications, including nonprescription, nonopioid, adjuvants, mild opioids, and strong opioids.

What are painkillers used for?

Painkillers are medicines that are used to treat pain. There are a large number of painkillers available and they all come in various different brand names. They can be taken: By mouth as liquids, tablets, or capsules. By injection. Via the back passage (rectum) as suppositories.

How do pain medications work?

Pain medicines work in different ways to help relieve pain. Doctors and pharmacists can recommend different types of medication depending on the source of pain and other factors. Choosing the most appropriate medication requires matching the cause of pain with the best medication that targets it.

What are opioid medications?

Opioid medications are synthetic cousins of opium and the drugs derived from opium such as heroin and morphine. These medications are typically prescribed for pain that's new, known as acute pain. Acute pain can stem from an injury, such as surgery or a broken bone.

Are pain medicines effective?

Pain medicines (analgesics) can be effective for pain relief, but they fail in the majority of patients. The focus should be on improving quality of life, and non-pharmacological options. Excessive prescribing of medicines has the potential to do more harm than good. How common is chronic pain?

What medications can be used to treat chronic pain?

Medicines such as amitriptyline, citalopram, duloxetine, fluoxetine, paroxetine or sertraline can be used in people aged 18 years and over to manage chronic primary pain. You should understand the possible benefits and harms of these medicines before starting them.

pain medications References

If you want to know more about pain medications, consider exploring links below:

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