Medication for alleviating pain: Classifications, mechanisms, and associated complications
In our daily lives, pain can be an unwelcome guest, causing discomfort and affecting our quality of life. Fortunately, a variety of pain medications are available to help manage pain effectively. Here's a breakdown of some common pain medications, their uses, and potential side effects.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an over-the-counter non-opioid pain reliever used for mild to moderate pain. It is generally gentler on the stomach compared to Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, acetaminophen carries a significant risk of liver damage, especially when taken in high doses, combined with alcohol, or with existing liver disease. Rare side effects may include itching, constipation, nausea, headache, insomnia, and agitation.
NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid, and low dose naproxen) are a type of over-the-counter pain medication. They work by blocking an enzyme that produces prostaglandins, thereby reducing pain from inflammation. Common side effects of NSAIDs include nausea, indigestion, stomach pain, ulcers, dizziness, headache, tinnitus, mental confusion, kidney damage, and increased risk of heart problems. Long-term or high-dose use can lead to more serious complications like internal bleeding and peptic ulcers. Children taking aspirin (an NSAID) risk Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition affecting the liver and brain.
Antiseizure medications, such as gabapentin (Neurontin), pregabalin (Lyrica), and carbamazepine (Tegretol), may be prescribed for specific types of nerve pain. However, they can cause side effects such as dizziness, sleepiness, fluid buildup in the legs, and suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
Prescription pain medications, like opioids or stronger analgesics, have different side effect profiles. They often include sedation, constipation, dependence, or respiratory depression, which differ markedly from NSAIDs and acetaminophen. These medications are typically reserved for severe pain and require a doctor's authorization and close monitoring.
Corticosteroids are reserved for flare-ups of long-term pain conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. They can cause side effects such as upset stomach, stomach ulcers, osteoporosis, fractures, diabetes, adrenal insufficiency, and more.
Topical pain relievers, such as diclofenac gel and topical capsaicin, are used to treat local pain without taking a pill by mouth. They can provide relief for specific areas of pain.
Antidepressants, like amitriptyline and duloxetine (Cymbalta), are sometimes prescribed for various types of pain, including chronic pain, nerve pain, and long-lasting muscle and bone pain. Side effects may include nausea, constipation, headache, and suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
Managing pain effectively involves seeking medical advice early and choosing the right pain medication for your specific needs. Some pain medications are available over the counter, while stronger ones require a prescription. It's essential to use pain relievers safely and consult a doctor before taking any medications, especially if you have medical conditions or other circumstances that may impact their safety.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Acetaminophen (Tylenol). [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/acetaminophen/about/pill-information/srct=1700193;qs=acetaminophen
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/nonsteroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs/about/pill-information/srct=1700193;qs=nsaid
[3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Aspirin. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/aspirin/about/pill-information/srct=1700193;qs=aspirin
[4] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Corticosteroids. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/corticosteroids/about/pill-information/srct=1700193;qs=corticosteroids
[5] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Opioid pain medication. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/opioid-pain-medication/about/pill-information/srct=1700193;qs=opioid%20pain%20medication
- Pfizer manufactures pregabalin (Lyrica), a pain medication often prescribed for nerve pain, which may cause side effects like dizziness, sleepiness, and fluid buildup.
- In regard to the safety of pain medications during pregnancy, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for advice and guidance, considering that some pain therapies and treatments may have potential risks.
- Health-and-wellness practitioners should be aware of the potential side effects associated with opioid use, including dependence, respiratory depression, and sedation, while exploring alternative therapies and treatments for managing pain.
- Science continues to explore new avenues for pain management, as topical pain relievers, such as diclofenac gel and topical capsaicin, provide local relief without affecting the entire body, offering an alternative option for some individuals seeking pain relief.
