
Surgery may be an option for people with: Surgery is usually reserved for those with structural abnormalities that haven’t responded to nonsurgical treatment with medication and therapy. Opioids should be used with caution, however, due to a risk of addiction. These medications, such as oxycodone (Ox圜ontin) and a combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone ( Vicodin), act on the brain cells and body to reduce pain. Opioids are stronger pain medications that can be prescribed for more severe pain. For example, a person with back pain that involves a nerve may get a cortisone steroid injection. Your doctor might also recommend cortisone steroid injections for certain causes of back pain. This antidepressant may also work better for nerve-related pain. If your back pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, because it focuses on different parts of the pain response. AntidepressantsĪntidepressants and other medications can sometimes be used off-label for the treatment of back pain. These medications act on the central nervous system to reduce pain. Muscle relaxants can also be used for lower back pain, especially if muscle spasms occur alongside pain. Many of these contain ingredients like ibuprofen and lidocaine and come in the form of:

Topical products may be highly effective at reducing back pain. Other medication options include: Topical rubs and ointments Never take more than the recommended dose of over-the-counter medications without a doctor’s recommendation, as even these medications may have severe side effects if taken incorrectly. They are also an option for back pain, though they don’t have the anti-inflammatory properties.īe careful with medications like ibuprofen if you have kidney problems or stomach ulcers. The majority of back pain episodes are relieved by treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as:Īnalgesics, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), are another category of pain relievers. In more severe cases, stronger treatments may be necessary, but they’re typically provided under close supervision from your doctor. Over-the-counter pain medications are often sufficient.

Many people will not need extensive treatment for back pain.
