Different Types of Painkillers

Today there are many medications on the market to treat pain. Some of these painkillers can be purchased over the counter, while others you'll need a prescription for. If you are experiencing chronic pain, it's best to talk to your doctor so he can prescribe a medication that will be best for you. Below is a list of the different categories of pain medication and what each one does.

Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen, better known as Tylenol, is an over-the-counter medication used to treat pain. Often it's mixed with another ingredient such as Percocet, which you'll need a prescription for. Acetaminophen does not treat inflammation. When not mixed with another medication, acetaminophen is generally used to treat mild to moderate pain. One needs to be cautious when taking a prescription medication with acetaminophen in it, being sure not to take other medications that also contain the substance. It can be dangerous when used in amounts higher than recommended and has been linked to liver damage.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, or NSAIDs, are common medications such as Motrin, Aleve, Ibuprofen and are available without a prescription. These medications are used to treat acute and chronic pain and work well in treating inflammation. NSAIDs work well in treating such conditions as arthritis and bursitis and their painful symptoms. The only drawback in using NSAIDs for a long period of time is that the patient may develop stomach problems.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are available by prescription and like NSAIDs, are anti-inflammatory medications used to treat acute pain. Some of the names corticosteroids go by are Prednisone and Medrol. These types of medications can be taken orally or by injection. A cortisone injection is given in the soft tissues or joints, around the area that is experiencing pain.

Narcotics

Narcotics such as codeine and morphine, are used to treat chronic and severe pain. These types of medications are only available with a prescription. Though these medications are extremely effective in controlling pain, the side effects need to be considered. The biggest side effect is addiction, when taking narcotics for a long period of time. When stopping this type of medication, it's best to do so gradually so there are less chances of withdrawal.

Anti-Convulsants

Anti-convulsant medications such as Neurontin and Lyrica, are available by prescription only. They are used to treat nerve pain, such as is experienced with fibromyalgia. Anti-convulsants work by altering nerve function and signals being sent to the brain.

Local Anesthetics

This type of medications can either be purchased over the counter or with a prescription. Their main function is to temporarily relieve pain to a specific area. A prescriptive medication such as Lidoderm, comes in patch form and is placed on the area that is feeling the pain. Capsaicin is a natural product that is found in many topical analgesic creams used to treat pain. Many times these types of medications will be used in conjunction with another treatment for pain.