Non Narcotic Pain Medication

Non-narcotic pain medications are the first choice of drug for acute pain management

Pain management is essential for certain medical conditions. Non-narcotic pain medication is a class of analgesic drug prescribed to relieve pain. It is the first drug of choice prescribed for mild to moderate pain management.

Significance

Analgesic drugs work to modify the way pain is perceived by the brain. It may block the pain pathway to the brain or alter the brain interpretation of the pain signals.

Types

Acetaminophen and aspirin are types of non-narcotic analgesics that reduce pain and fever. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen, diclofenac and ibuprofen have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic (fever reduction) properties.

Benefits

Non-narcotic pain medications do not result in addiction. They are also tolerated well by most patients with pain symptoms, and do not produce side effects when taken at the proper dosage.

Limitation

This type of analgesic medication is only effective in the management of mild to moderate pain. It may not provide effective relief for chronic pain symptoms.

Warning

Taking more than the prescribed dosage of NSAIDs may result in gastrointestinal bleeding with additional risk to kidney damage when taken at a higher dosage. Acetaminophen may damage the liver when taken beyond the prescribe dose with a higher risk for individuals with liver disease.

References

• charitedisc.com: Pain Medications
• emedexpert.com: Pain Medication
• health.com: Important Facts About Non-Narcotic Pain Drugs

Resources

• wehelpwhathurts.homestead.com: Non-Narcotic Pain Pharmacology