Effective treatments for sore lower backs: Varieties, drug amounts, and additional details
In the quest to find relief from lower back pain, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often the first line of defence recommended by doctors. These medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are effective in reducing both pain and inflammation[1][2][3][4].
Ibuprofen, a common NSAID, is available in various forms and can be taken in doses of 400-800 mg up to three times a day[5]. Naproxen is another NSAID that doctors may prescribe for lower back pain, and the recommended dose depends on the pain level[6].
Beyond NSAIDs, other prescription medications can help manage lower back pain. These include antidepressants, oral corticosteroids, benzodiazepines, antibiotics, and muscle relaxants like cyclobenzaprine (Amrix, Fexmid)[2][3]. Cyclobenzaprine may cause side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, constipation, heartburn, extreme tiredness, and unusual symptoms. If these side effects are severe or persist, it's important to inform a doctor[7].
Tramadol (Conzip, Ultram) is another prescription medication that doctors may prescribe for lower back pain. It may cause side effects such as sleepiness, headache, and nausea[8]. However, it's crucial to remember that opioids, a strong class of prescription medication, can have serious side effects such as misuse or addiction, physical dependence, imminent concerns of death, nausea, drowsiness, tolerance, constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, and hormone changes[9].
Complementary treatments for lower back pain can also provide relief. These include magnesium supplements, TENS therapy, topical creams containing lidocaine and capsaicin, heat and cold therapy, yoga, and stretching[10].
It's important to note that only around half of all clinical guidelines for treating lower back pain recommend using opioids[11]. Moreover, medications, particularly prescription strengths, can be expensive even with insurance. Several organisations can help reduce medication costs, such as ConnectiveRx, Medicare, Eagle Pharmacy (EyeRx Direct), PAN Foundation, Blink Health, NeedyMeds, RxHope, Medicine Assistance Tool, PharmacyChecker, RxOutreach, and others[12].
Lastly, it's essential to inform a doctor about any severe or persistent side effects from any medication used to treat lower back pain[13]. The article provides a table outlining some medications doctors may prescribe for lower back pain, their recommended doses, and potential side effects.
References:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4138684/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6462717/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6137263/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6137263/ [5] https://www.drugs.com/ibuprofen.html [6] https://www.drugs.com/naproxen.html [7] https://www.drugs.com/sfx/cyclobenzaprine-side-effects.html [8] https://www.drugs.com/tramadol.html [9] https://www.drugs.com/opioid.html [10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6264594/ [11] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6091894/ [12] https://www.healthline.com/health/pain-management/help-paying-for-pain-medication#1 [13] https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/medicines/what-should-i-do-if-i-have-a-problem-with-my-medicine/
- A shopper in need of health-and-wellness products might find pain medications, like ibuprofen and naproxen, available at a retail pharmacy for relief from lower back pain.
- The predictive science of medicine suggests that obesity might contribute to the development and exacerbation of lower back pain, making weight management an essential aspect of overall health.
- Aside from NSAIDs, various mental-health medications may also help with managing lower back pain by addressing underlying conditions like anxiety or depression that might aggravate the pain.
- Incorporating complementary treatments, such as magnesium supplements, TENS therapy, and yoga, into one's health routine can enhance the effectiveness of pharmaceutical treatments for lower back pain.
- Recognizing the potential side effects, such as drowsiness and nausea, associated with prescription medications like tramadol and cyclobenzaprine is crucial for maintaining mental and physical well-being during treatment for lower back pain.
