Pain medicine

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Pain medicine

Several types of medicines can be used to treat pain.

Pain medicines may be over-the-counter (OTC) medicines—like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Ask your doctor which OTCs are safe for you to use.

Your doctor may prescribe other pain medicines. These may include some NSAIDs that aren't OTC medicines.

Opioids are strong medicines. They may be prescribed if your doctor thinks you may need them to relieve moderate to severe pain.

To avoid the risk of side effects from pain medicine, take the lowest dose that works to relieve your pain.

Take pain medicines exactly as prescribed or according to the label on the medicine bottle and box.

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Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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