Drugs That Treat Pain
(Analgesic Drugs)
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NOTE: Also see non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
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The Generic (common) Name of the drug is
listed first, followed by a specific Product (brand) Name,
which is an example of that generic drug. To learn more
about an individual drug, click on its Generic Name or
Product Name.
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Examples:
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What is an
analgesic drug?
Analgesic drugs help stop pain. Because pain is common
during acute illness, injury and following operations,
analgesic drugs are frequently used in the ICU. These drugs
are usually given intravenously in the ICU, but can also be
given by mouth, as a skin patch, or through a special
catheter in the lower part of the back called an epidural
catheter. Medication doses are adjusted depending upon the
severity of the pain.
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Why is it
given?
The doctor prescribes this drug to reduce pain felt by the
patient or when the patient's condition is known to be
associated with pain.
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How long is it
used?
This depends upon how the patient feels. Pain medication is
usually only needed for a short period of time. Under some
circumstances, however, it might be used indefinitely.
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Does it have
side effects?
These types of pain medicines do have side effects. Common
side effects include sedation, constipation, and
occasionally nausea (upset stomach).
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