6 Types of Medication for Back Pain
Back pain is a common problem seen throughout the world. Acute back pain is back pain that has lasted under four weeks. Subacute back pain lasts four to twelve weeks. Chronic back pain is back pain that lasts for longer than twelve weeks. Some injuries may require no medication and others may require medication. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and no two people will be identical in their treatment.
Over the Counter Pain Relievers
Over the counter pain relievers may be used for acute back pain. Some of these medications include NSAID’s (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen, and naproxen. These medications are helpful but need to be taken with care. Follow the directions to ensure safe ingestion of these medications. Another over the counter pain reliever that may be used is Tylenol. This medication is not a NSAID, but it can help in patients experiencing acute back pain. If these medications are not working talk to a healthcare professional and they can look at new options.
Muscle Relaxants
Muscle relaxants can be used in patients that are not experiencing pain relief with over the counter medications. A muscle relaxer can help reduce skeletal muscle spasms, relieve pain, and increase the mobility of muscles that are affected. [1] Some common muscle relaxers are cyclobenzaprine, methocarbamol, and baclofen. Muscle relaxers may cause drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, or depression. When not taken properly these medications can be lethal.
Topical Pain
Topical pain relievers can be helpful depending on the pain you are experiencing. Some medications commonly used for topical use include Icy Hot, Gold Bond, lidocaine patches, and diclofenac. [1] Before using a topical pain reliever for the first time make sure to use a small amount on a small area of the body to ensure you have no allergies to the medication. Some of these medications may cause allergic reactions and it is much easier to treat a small surface area than a large area like the back. If the over the counter topical pain relievers are not working there are prescription level topical pain relievers your physician may be able to prescribe for you.
Opioids
The strongest medications that may be used for back pain are opioids. These are medications such as oxycodone or hydrocodone. These medications are highly addictive and have been proven to not work well when used for chronic back pain. [2] These medications are commonly used after surgery to help reduce pain. The prescription length on these medications is typically short to avoid drug dependency.
Anti-Epileptic Drugs
Anti-Epileptic drugs may be used to help calm nerve pain. Nerve pain can be treated with gabapentin, carbamazepine, topiramate, and others. [3] These medications work by altering the ability of nerve endings and how often they are able to fire. These medications have side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, nausea, confusion, and sometimes loss of balance.
Antidepressants
The last type of pain medication that may be used for your back pain is antidepressants. Some antidepressants have been shown to relieve chronic back pain. [2] Some of the medications that have shown to do this are duloxetine and amitriptyline. These medications work by increasing chemicals in the back that have been shown to reduce pain signals. They may take several days before you begin to see positive results with these medications.
Conclusion
No matter which medication you are taking for your back pain it is very important to follow the directions. Medications are generally safe when following instructions. If you begin experiencing side effects to these medications make sure to tell your healthcare provider so they know. Some people may need medications to treat their back pain and other people may be able to manage with other forms of therapy. Find a balance that works for you.
Sources
1. Falla, K. (2019, November 4). Medications for Back Pain and Neck Pain. Spine. Retrieved June 17, 2022, from https://www.spine-health.com/treatment/painmedication/medications-back-pain-and-neck-pain
2. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020, August 21). Back Pain. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved June 17, 2022, from
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseasesconditions/back-pain/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369911
3. Jacques, E. (2022, February 25). Anticonvulsants may be Able to Help Your Chronic Pain. Verywell Health. Retrieved June 17, 2022, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/anti-seizure-medications-for-chronic-pain-2564494
