Many drugs can help ease chronic pain

Q: I live in chronic pain and would appreciate any information you can give on different medications.

J.A., Fort Myers, Fla.

A: Here are a few:

Ibuprofen: An anti- inflammatory sold over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription in higher dosages. Helps with arthritis, back pain, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, TMJ, post-operative swelling, dental pain and PMS cramps. A similar drug 'naproxen,' is available OTC as Aleve and by prescription as 'Naprosyn.' Upset stomach, heartburn, ulceration and elevated blood pressure may occur, especially in seniors.

Oxycodone: An opiate narcotic analgesic that relieves moderate to severe pain by changing the way we sense pain. Don't combine opiate drugs with alcohol and never crush or chew extended-release forms of this drug (i.e. Oxycontin). Side effects include sleepiness, dizziness, upset stomach, constipation and slowed breathing. Can be habit-forming.

Tramadol: Brand name is Ultram. This analgesic works like an opiate and an antidepressant all at once, reducing pain and boosting mood. Also available in an extended-release form, Ultram ER for those with chronic pain. May cause sleepiness, dizziness, headache, itching, sweating and agitation. Grapefruit juice, St. John's wort and anti-seizure drugs can interact with tramadol. Can be habit-forming.

Lidoderm: A prescription patch that delivers lidocaine, an anesthetic that numbs the skin if you are undergoing minor medical or cosmetic procedures. It also helps relieve certain types of back pain and the burning/stinging pain that can result from shingles, known as post-herpetic neuralgia or PHN.

Lyrica: Chemically called 'pregabalin,' This is an anti-seizure drug, but it also relieves the pain in the nerves caused by diabetes, shingles or PHN. Side effects include confusion, difficulty paying attention, shortness of breath and shaky hands. Can be habit-forming.

Cymbalta: Chemically called duloxetine, Cymbalta is an antidepressant drug that increases serotonin and norepinephrine, two chemical messengers in the brain that block pain signals and boost mood. It can be prescribed for any type of pain syndrome, including pain from damaged nerves such as diabetic neuropathy, neuralgias or PHN. Side effects include upset stomach, reduced appetite, muscle cramps, weakness, night sweats, dry mouth, cough and blurred vision.

Capsaicin: Available OTC, continued use of this 'hot pepper' cream deadens painful nerve endings, making it an inexpensive solution for muscle aches, joint pain, neuropathies and PHN. Brands include Zostrix, Salonpas and Capzaicin.

Myobloc: Botulinum toxin (yes, similar to Botox) is injected to relieve cervical dystonia, migraines, back pain and other painful conditions.

This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen's column is published Tuesdays in the TimesDaily.