Pain Medication List

Pain Medication List

Pain is a common experience that can cause discomfort, whether it comes on suddenly (acute pain) or gradually over time (chronic pain).

When it comes to treating pain, there are various medications available. These can range from over-the-counter (OTC) drugs to prescription medicines.

Opioids: These powerful, lab-produced painkillers alter how your brain perceives pain signals. Generally, they’re prescribed for a short time after surgery to help manage intense injuries.

Fentanyl (Duragesic): This powerful narcotic is often misused and highly addictive. It may be administered as part of anesthesia during surgical procedures or injected for short-term pain relief.

Hydrocodone: Hydrocodone is almost as potent as morphine and used to relieve moderate pain. It’s often prescribed for back pain patients, but can also be used to manage other types of discomfort.

Morphine: Morphine and its derivatives are used to manage both acute and chronic pain, as well as provide sedation before surgery. Derived from the opium poppy plant, it can be administered intravenously in hospital settings or taken in tablet, liquid, or injectable form.

Oxycodone: Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid, 1.5 times stronger than morphine and used to treat severe pain. Unfortunately, it’s considered a Schedule II drug with a high risk for abuse and addiction.

Tapentadol: Tapentadol, a synthetic opioid, works similarly to oxycodone for relieving mild to moderate pain. However, it has less of an addictive potential and fewer gastrointestinal side effects.