Narcotic Pain Relievers for Acute Neck Pain
Examples
| Generic Name | Brand Name |
|---|---|
| acetaminophen and hydrocodone | Lortab, Vicodin |
| acetaminophen and oxycodone | Percocet |
| aspirin and oxycodone | Percodan |
| codeine | |
| oxycodone | OxyContin, Percolone |
How It Works
Narcotic medicines relieve pain by altering the way you feel pain.
Why It Is Used
Narcotics are recommended only for short-term treatment of severe, sudden (acute) neck pain.
Because these medicines are potentially addictive, they are usually prescribed for a limited time (1 to 2 weeks).
How Well It Works
Using narcotic medicines to treat neck pain is not well studied.1
When a narcotic does relieve pain, it becomes less effective over time. The body becomes more tolerant of narcotic medicine, and then a normal narcotic dosage provides less effective pain relief.
Side Effects
Side effects include:
- Drug addiction/dependence.
- Confusion.
- Drowsiness.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Constipation.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Narcotics are not intended for use "until all the pain goes away." They are intended to be used only for a few days at the most. Your doctor will probably only prescribe enough to get you through the most severe pain.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)
(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Today in Back Pain
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.