Why might pain medications be beneficial?
For the treatment of chronic pain resulting from injury or disease, opioid pain medications may be a part of your treatment plan, in addition to non-drug therapies.
Dr. Mendoza may recommend drug therapy to treat conditions that cause chronic pain, such as:
- Joint pain
- Nerve pain
- Headaches
- Fibromyalgia
- Herniated disc
- Degenerative disc disease
Dr. Mendoza can evaluate the source of your pain and determine if drug therapy can help restore your quality of life.
What pain medication therapies are available?
Dr. Mendoza is highly experienced in evaluating your chronic pain and determining if treatment with opioids or other pain medications is right for you. He has extensive clinical experience in evaluating what particular pain regiment medications might benefit you.
In addition to traditional pain relievers, Dr. Mendoza is knowledgeable and experienced in treating chronic pain issues with new pain medications formulas, including:
LYRICA™
NUCYNTA®
Buprenorphine
Depending on your needs, Dr. Mendoza may use one or a combination of drug therapies to improve your overall functionality and alleviate persistent pain.
Do drug therapies for chronic pain have side effects?
Pain medications can have side effects that interfere with your usual activities. Common side effects of opioid pain medications include drowsiness and impaired judgement. Dr. Mendoza may recommend limiting activities, such as driving, when taking these medications. You should also avoid alcohol, as it can increase your physical and mental impairment when used with opioid medications.
Other side effects of using opioid medications include nausea, vomiting, and constipation. If you stop using these medications suddenly, you may also develop withdrawal symptoms, such as:
- Insomnia
- Diarrhea
- Restlessness
- Mood swings
To ensure your overall health and well-being, it’s critical that you follow dosing instructions for your medications. Dr. Mendoza carefully monitors your medication therapy to ensure you can tolerate the drugs and are using them properly, especially in long-term therapies, to prevent withdrawal complications and addiction.
What are some alternatives to opioid pain medications?
There are non opioid pain medications that can be effective in treating your pain. Common medications sold over the counter include ibuprofen (Motrin), acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin (Bayer). Alternative therapies for pain relief include:
- Nerve blocks
- Injection therapy
- Physical therapy
- Topical creams and gels
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to managing pain. Dr. Mendoza works directly with you to find the right therapy options to keep you functional and active.
Find out more about pain medications and chronic pain relief by scheduling an appointment online or by calling the office nearest you.
