Prescription Medications
Prescription painkillers or muscle relaxants often help relieve low back pain, but they should be used only for a limited time. The type of medication that your doctor or healthcare professional may recommend depends on your symptoms and how uncomfortable you are.
Muscle relaxants can be helpful if clear evidence exists of muscle spasms or if other treatments have not worked. Prescription painkillers (analgesics) should be used early during an episode of back pain and only for short-term pain relief.
Although medications work well to control pain and discomfort, they can have side effects. Some people cannot take aspirin or ibuprofen because these drugs can cause stomach irritation or ulcers. Many medications prescribed for low back pain can cause drowsiness and should not be taken if you need to drive or use heavy equipment. Talk to your healthcare professional about the benefits and risks of any medication recommended. If side effects such as nausea, vomiting, a rash, or dizziness occur, stop taking the drug and contact your healthcare professional immediately.
