Most people do not have to live with pain. There are ways to treat or manage chronic pain - some involve medications, and others do not. If your doctor prescribes medication, be sure to talk about whether it is safe to take with other medications and how your medical history impacts the decision.
Make sure to keep a list of all the medications you take including over-the-counter drugs and any supplements. Take this list to your appointments and be sure to keep your doctor updated.
Be sure you know and take the right dose of the medication prescribed.
Here are some of the types of medications your doctor may prescribe or recommend for pain.
Select each photo to learn more about managing pain.
For mild to moderate pain. People with liver disease or who drink a lot of alcohol should not take it.
May not be safe for people with high blood pressure or who have had a stroke; may have side-effects like internal bleeding. Ask your doctor if they are safe for you.
These medications are used to treat severe pain and are not considered a first line treatment. If you choose to manage your pain with opioids, be cautious. These drugs, while effective, are associated with very serious side effects including addiction and death.
Your doctor may prescribe other medications to manage your pain. These may include antidepressants, anticonvulsive medicines, local painkillers like nerve blocks or patches, as well as ointments and creams.