Pain Killers and Their Side Effects

Understandably, many people suffering from neck and back pain turn to pain killers to try to find relief from their symptoms. However, be aware of the side effects of these common medications and use them cautiously. Medications for pain are either obtained “over the counter” (meaning they can be obtained without a prescription) or they are prescribed by a medical professional. The potential side effects of each are outlined below:

Over the counter medications

Everyday, neck and back pain sufferers reach in the medicine cabinet for acetaminophen, also known as Tylenol. However, a study on the safety and efficacy of these drugs was recently published in The BMJ. The new study shows that painkillers such as acetaminophen are ineffective against lower back pain.

With the the inefficiency of acetaminophen for back pain, it leaves one to wonder why anyone would continue taking a drug whose side effects may include nausea, an increased likelihood of liver damage and rash, blisters or other skin reactions (these can indicate rare, but potentially fatal skin disorders — stop use and seek medical attention immediately)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs — aka NSAIDs (e.g. Advil, Aleve and Motrin) are more effective in masking pain but still have side effects such as:

• nausea,
• allergic reactions
• stomach ulcers
• kidney problems
• increased risk of heart attack or stroke

Prescription drugs for back pain

Prescription narcotic painkillers — aka opioid analgesics (e.g. hydrocodone, morphine, and oxycodone) are commonly used for more serious cases of back pain. However, most prescription drugs have a high risk of addiction and carry a long list of known side effects:

• memory loss
• dizziness
• nausea
• constipation
• hormone imbalances
• weakened immune system
• depression

Perhaps the most detrimental side effect of pain relief medications is that extended use merely masks the pain instead of addressing the cause. The study,  mentioned above, urges back pain sufferers to seek out drug free treatments, such as chiropractic care in lieu of medications. 

Drug Free Back Pain Treatment in Fort Wayne

At Busch Chiropractic Pain Center we work with our patients in and around the Fort Wayne area to help their bodies heal and to find ways to maintain a pain-free lifestyle without the need for harmful and potentially addictive medications. Our non-surgical, drug-free DRS Protocol® has proven to be an effective, pain-free treatment for back pain and neck pain conditions.

If pain is a daily part of your life, please schedule an appointment to learn how Dr. Busch can apply his proven pain relief techniques to your individual situation.