Pain is a very common problem that affects people of all ages, and there are many different types of pain medications available to treat it. The most common type of pain medication is over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, which are drugs that can be bought without a prescription. Dr. Brian Blick has extensive research and understanding in the filed of medicines and he always advises his patients to consult a physician before moving forward with these.
There are also prescription pain medications, which are stronger than OTC pain relievers and must be taken under the care of a healthcare provider. Common prescription pain medications include opioids as well as other drugs. In some cases, alternative treatments such as acupuncture or massage may be recommended for pain relief.
The different types available in the market:
1. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers:
The most frequent kind of pain medication is over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, which are medicines that can be purchased without a prescription. The features of these medicines include:
- They are relatively safe and have few side effects when taken as directed.
- They are available without a prescription.
- They are affordable.
These drugs work by reducing inflammation or blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. They are typically taken every four to six hours as needed for pain relief, says Dr. Blick.
2. Prescription pain medications:
Prescription pain medications are stronger than OTC pain relievers and must be taken under the care of a healthcare provider. The features include:
- They are more potent and have more side effects than OTC pain relievers.
- They require a prescription from a healthcare provider.
- They may be addictive.
These drugs work by affecting the brain’s perception of pain.
3. Alternative treatments:
In certain instances, alternative treatments such as acupuncture or massage might be advised for pain alleviation. The features of these treatments include:
- They are non-invasive and have few side effects.
- They may not be covered by insurance.
- They may not be available in all areas.
These treatments work by stimulating the nervous system in a way that reduces pain signals.
How often these medications should be taken:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications: every four to six hours as needed for pain relief.
- Prescription pain medications: as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
- Alternative treatments: as recommended by a healthcare provider.
When to see a healthcare provider:
If over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are not effective in managing pain, or if the pain is severe, a healthcare provider should be consulted. It is also important to see a healthcare provider if side effects from pain medications are bothersome or if they persist. In some cases, alternative treatments may be recommended, opines Dr. Blick.
Dr. Brian Blick is a Board Certified Anesthesiologist in Elk City, Oklahoma. He was born and raised in Edmond, Oklahoma, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 2004. Dr. Brian Blick is dedicated to providing excellent medical care for his patients and takes an individual interest in each one of them. Dr. Brian Blick is a kind physician who puts his patients first.
