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Pain medications Information:
Question:
Are
all pain medications alike?
Answer:
No. Pain medications
(analgesics) vary considerably. Each pain medication has its advantages and
risks. Specific types and causes of pain may respond better to one kind of pain
medication than to another kind. In addition, each person is slightly different
in the way they respond to a pain medication.
Over-the-counter
medications are good for many types of pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, for
example) is good for relieving pain and fever .
It is less irritating to the stomach than other over-the-counter pain
medications; and is safer for children. It can, however, be toxic to the liver
in high doses. Aspirin, naproxen (such as Aleve), and other non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are good for reducing inflammation
caused by injury or arthritis .
Ibuprofen is often good for menstrual pain and
will also help reduce inflammation. However, they SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN TO
CHILDREN EXCEPT UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. These
medications have been linked to Reye's syndrome , necrotizing fasciitis (" flesh-eating bacteria "),
and other problems when taken by children with viral infections.
Prescription
medications may be needed for other types of pain. Non-narcotic and narcotic
medications (narcotic analgesics - oral) have their specific uses and risks.
(See the specific medication).
Other methods may help reduce pain (in
addition to, or instead of, pain medications). This includes heat, cold,
massage, resting or gentle use of the affected part, biofeedback ,
relaxation techniques, and many other measures.
Consult your health
care provider if pain lasts longer than a few days, if over-the-counter pain
medications are not helping reduce the pain, or if problems or other symptoms
arise. A consultation with a pain clinic or other specialist may be helpful for
control of long-term pain.
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