Non-opioid pharmacologic therapies are treatments that do not involve the use of opioid medications to manage pain. Examples of non-opioid pharmacologic therapies include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, local anesthetics, topical agents, and muscle relaxants.
NSAIDs are medications that work by decreasing inflammation, reducing pain, and lowering fever. Commonly prescribed NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib. Acetaminophen is another type of medication used for pain relief. It works by reducing pain signals sent by the brain, but unlike NSAIDs, it does not reduce inflammation.
Corticosteroids are medications that mimic the effects of the body’s natural hormones and are used to reduce inflammation and swelling. They are usually used to treat conditions such as asthma, allergies, and rheumatoid arthritis. Anticonvulsants, such as pregabalin, are used to treat chronic pain associated with nerve damage.
Antidepressants are medications that are commonly used to treat depression but can also be used to relieve chronic pain. Tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most common types of antidepressants used in pain management.
Local anesthetics are medications that are administered directly to the site of pain. Examples of local anesthetics include lidocaine, bupivacaine, and mepivacaine. Topical agents are topical medications, such as capsaicin and menthol, which are applied to the skin to reduce inflammation and pain.
Muscle relaxants are medications that work by relaxing the muscles, reducing spasms, and improving mobility. Examples of muscle relaxants include cyclobenzaprine, metaxalone, and carisoprodol.
Non-opioid pharmacologic therapies are an effective way to manage pain without the risk of addiction or other side effects associated with opioid medications. It is important to talk to your doctor to determine which type of non-opioid pharmacologic therapy is best for you.