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The pharmacist at our local clinic suggested I take a narcotic pain reliever for my ongoing low back pain. She said they come in different formulations from weak to strong and in pill or patch form. Which one should I ask for?
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Narcotic medications called opioids come in a range of prescription strength. These subgroups are labeled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as schedules II, III, and IV. Schedule II contain strong opioids such as Actiq, Dilaudid, Demerol, Morphine, and Oxycodone. You may have heard of OxyContin or Percodan -- these are other names used for the same drug as Oxydodone.
Schedules III and IV are the weakest opioid including products with codeine such as Tylenol #2, #3, or #4, Lortab, Vicodin, Darvon, and Darvocet.
Opioids are administered via a pill (orally by mouth), a skin patch (called transdermal), or as a nasal spray. The specific type, formulation, and dose must be determined and prescribed by a medical doctor. Because these medications are potentially addictive, they are prescribed cautiously and monitored carefully.
If you have not had a complete workup as to the cause of (and therefore treatment for) your back pain, that's the first step. If you have been told by your primary care physician or orthopedic surgeon that you have nonspecific back pain, then an opioid might be helpful. Nonspecific low back pain refers to pain that is caused by a mechanical problem within the musculoskeletal system (soft tissues, joints). There are no fractures, infections, or tumors causing your symptoms. Likewise, opioids are only prescribed when you have tried conservative care without success for at least three to six months.
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*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. |
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