Medicine is used to ease symptoms of low back pain and sciatica. Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed.
Prescription Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)
- Naproxen
- Ibuprofen
- Diclofenac
- Celecoxib
- Meloxicam
- Codeine
- Oxycodone
- Fluoxetine
- Duloxetine
- Amitriptyline
- Cyclobenzaprine
- Diazepam
Over the Counter Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)
- Naproxen
- Ibuprofen
- Acetaminophen
- Aspirin
- Topical pain relievers, such as creams, lotions, ointments, and patches
Prescription Medications
Common names are:
- Naproxen
- Ibuprofen
- Diclofenac
- Celecoxib
- Meloxicam
These drugs work to ease the inflammation that causes pain. They are used for both low back pain and sciatica.
Some prescription NSAIDs are higher doses of the ones that are available over the counter. Some come in forms that can be put on the skin.
Problems may be:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Stomach upset
- Fluid buildup
- Liver damage
Common names are:
- Codeine
- Oxycodone
Prescription opioids may be given short-term for severe low back pain and sciatica. Slow-release forms may be used in people who have chronic low back pain.
Problems may be:
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Problems breathing
- Abuse or addiction
Over the Counter Medications
References
Acute low back pain. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/acute-low-back-pain. Accessed May 5, 2022.
Chronic low back pain. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/chronic-low-back-pain. Accessed May 5, 2022.
Low back pain. Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at:https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/low-back-pain. Accessed May 5, 2022.
Sciatica. Cleveland Clinic website. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12792-sciatica. Accessed May 5, 2022.
Sciatica. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/sciatica. Accessed May 5, 2022.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Teresa Briedwell, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS
- Update Date: 05/05/2022