Types of Pain Killers
The term "pain killer" encompasses a variety of pain medications also known as analgesics. And while there are many different kinds of pain killers, three are considered the most common and include opioid drugs, paracetamol-based drugs, and anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Prescription drugs categorized as an anti-inflammatory agents and paracetamol-based drugs are not addictive and are usually the first line of defense for patients experiencing pain.
Opioid drugs, however, are highly addictive and rarely the first option to control and manage pain. Among the most commonly prescribed are OxyContin, Vicodin, codeine, methadone, Lortab, Fentanyl and others.
Meditox treats pain killer addiction with a unique blend of outpatient support and the medication buprenorphine, a drug that, though it is opioid-based and addictive, is never prescribed to treat pain but only to treat addiction to opiate pain killers.
Pain Killer Addiction and Types of Pain Killers: Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Anti-inflammatory drugs are comprised of commonly known agents such as aspirin, ibuprofen and Diclofenac. These pain killers do more than just stop pain; they will also reduce inflammation and/or a fever. Steroids, too, are also used to treat inflammation, but are called NSAIDs to distinguish them from other types of steroids.
NSAIDs are popular choice for pain relief because many are available without a prescription. However, even with their easy availability, these drugs can be dangerous when misused. Side effects can include bleeding ulcers, photosensitivity and women who are pregnant are not advised to take them.
Pain Killer Addiction and Types of Pain Killers: Paracetamol Based Drugs
Acetaminophen is the more commonly known name for paracetamol, and paracetamol-, or acetaminophen-based, drugs are also available without a prescription. They include well-known brands like Tylenol and Panadol. Though these do not have anti-inflammatory properties, they do alleviate pain and fever. When used properly, these drugs will not damage the kidney or the lining of the stomach. Pregnant women are usually advised that paracetamol-based drugs are safe during pregnancy.
However, there are risks associated with paracetamol-based drugs, especially in large doses. Paracetamol can cause significant liver damage if taken in quantities exceeding 10 grams in a single dose. You should not drink alcohol when using this medication as it can affect the filtering of the liver and result in paracetamol poisoning.
Pain Killer Addiction and Types of Pain Killers: Opioid-Based Drugs
Pain killers that are opioid-based are very powerful even in the smallest doses. Available only through a doctor's prescription, even when taken exactly as directed, it is possible-even probable-that opiate addiction will result. Highly effective in managing pain, large doses can also produce a euphoric feeling. Severe side effects are associated with this drug, as well, and include constipation, extreme fatigue, inability to concentrate. Taken incorrectly, overdose is also a risk, one that can result in respiratory depression, respiratory failure, coma and death.
Get Treatment for Pain Killer Addiction at Meditox
Pain killer addiction is a medical disease and one that can be treated with an opiate detox at Meditox. We offer a confidential and safe treatment program that is formatted to integrate into your busy life and still allow your body to break its addiction to your pain killer prescription without becoming ill. Call Meditox today to learn more about our programs and find out how we can help you.
If you feel that Meditox might be the right solution for you or your loved one, please call us for a toll-free and private consultation:
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“Today is week #5! I have my life back, this morning my husband told me he hadn't seen me like this in three years! My daughter told me "your back Mom"! My Fybromyalgia is down to 2 to 3 percent of what it was, I am fully able to live with the Joy and Love and Laughter which has always been my way.”
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August 11, 2006
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