Approximately 50 million Americans suffer from a medical condition that causes chronic pain, reports the American Academy of Pain Management. To help control their suffering, doctors may prescribe a variety of medications.

Types

There are two main types of prescription drugs for chronic pain: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and opioids. In most cases, drugs for chronic pain come in oral form like tablets or capsules, though intravenous, injectable and topical forms are also available, as well as patches that slowly release medication over long periods of time.

Function

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications work by interfering with the production of prostaglandins, chemicals in your body that transmit pain signals and contribute to inflammation, reports the University of Virginia. Opioids bind to spots on your brain and spinal cord, blocking the transmission of pain signals and slowing down your nervous system.

Names

Commonly prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications include ketoprofen, naproxen, meloxicam, celecoxib, diclofenac and piroxicam. Some common opioid analgesics are hydrocodone, oxycodone, codeine, levorphanol, morphine, fentanyl and meperidine.

Risks

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications pose a risk for stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, heart attacks and stroke when used for prolonged periods of time, reports the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Gastroenterology. The use of an opioid analgesic may result in a life-threatening condition known as respiratory depression, where your brain is unable to properly regulate your breathing.

Addiction

The use of opioid analgesics for the management of chronic pain may lead to physical or psychological dependence on them, the American Chronic Pain Association cautions. When such dependence exists, you may develop withdrawal symptoms like nervousness and sweating if you discontinue use of the opioids.

Variations

For some types of chronic pain, doctors use other types of medications to help reduce discomfort. Examples include the use of antidepressants for chronic migraines and fibromyalgia or the use of anti-seizure medications for nerve pain.

Source:

American Chronic Pain Association: Medications and Chronic Pain

University of Virginia: How Aspirin Works

CDC: NSAID Medications May Increase Your Risk of Heart Attack or Stroke

More Information:

American College of Gastroenterology: The Dangers of Aspirin & NSAIDS

American Academy of Pain Management: Pain is an Epidemic

Mayo Clinic: Antidepressants-Another Weapon Against Chronic Pain