26/05/2025
If you paint back, show the truck 
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# # # **1. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications**
- **NSAIDs** (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs):
- **Examples**: Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Naproxen (Aleve).
- **Purpose**: Reduce inflammation and relieve mild to moderate pain.
- **Side Effects**: Stomach irritation, kidney issues, increased cardiovascular risk with long-term use.
- **Acetaminophen (Tylenol)**:
- **Purpose**: Eases pain (but does not reduce inflammation).
- **Safety**: Safer for stomachs than NSAIDs but risky in high doses (liver damage).
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# # # **2. Prescription Medications**
- **Muscle Relaxants**:
- **Examples**: Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), Methocarbamol (Robaxin).
- **Purpose**: Relieve muscle spasms (often short-term use).
- **Side Effects**: Drowsiness, dizziness.
- **Antidepressants**:
- **Examples**: Duloxetine (Cymbalta), Amitriptyline.
- **Purpose**: Manage chronic nerve-related pain (e.g., sciatica).
- **Anticonvulsants**:
- **Examples**: Gabapentin (Neurontin), Pregabalin (Lyrica).
- **Purpose**: Treat nerve pain (neuropathy) linked to conditions like herniated discs.
- **Opioids**:
- **Examples**: Oxycodone, Hydrocodone (limited use due to addiction risk).
- **Purpose**: Severe acute pain (short-term only).
- **Risks**: High potential for dependence, constipation, respiratory depression.
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# # # **3. Topical Treatments**
- **NSAID Gels/Creams**: Diclofenac gel (Voltaren).
- **Lidocaine Patches**: Numb localized pain areas.
- **Capsaicin Cream**: Derived from chili peppers; reduces pain signals over time.
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# # # **4. Corticosteroids**
- **Examples**: Prednisone (oral), Epidural steroid injections.
- **Purpose**: Reduce severe inflammation (e.g., from herniated discs or spinal stenosis).
- **Limitations**: Not for long-term use due to side effects (bone thinning, weight gain).
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# # # **5. Alternative Therapies**
- **Physical Therapy**: Often combined with medications for better outcomes.
- **Acupuncture or Chiropractic Care**: May complement drug treatment.
- **CBD (Cannabidiol)**: Emerging use for pain relief, though evidence is mixed.
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# # # **Safety Tips**
- Avoid prolonged NSAID use without medical supervision.
- Opioids should only be used under strict doctor guidance.
- Always disclose other medications/supplements to avoid interactions.
If back pain persists >6 weeks, consult a healthcare provider to rule out serious causes (e.g., fractures, infections, or tumors).
