What are NSAIDs and how do they work? Prostaglandins are a family of chemicals that are produced by the cells of the body and have several important functions. They promote inflammation that is necessary for healing, but also results in pain, and fever; support the blood clotting function of platelets; and protect the lining of...
What is codeine? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Codeine is a narcotic pain-reliever and cough suppressant similar to morphine and hydrocodone. Moreover, a small amount of codeine is converted to morphine in the body. The precise mechanism of action of codeine is not known; however, like morphine, codeine binds to receptors in the...
Home remedies to get rid of body aches A few common ways that may help in getting rid of body aches are drinking plenty of water, take a hot bath, and more. Medications such as Tylenol, Advil, Motrin, and ibuprofen are great and the fastest way to get rid of body aches. However, these are...
What is botulinum toxin? The bacterial botulinum toxin refined into a drug called Botox, among other formulations. It can smooth fine lines and wrinkles by paralyzing underlying facial muscles, it can reduce nerve pain and relax spasming muscles. Botulinum toxin is one of nature’s most poisonous biological substances. It is a neurotoxin produced by bacteria...
What are opioids? Switching patients from one opioid painkiller to another may be necessary for many reasons, whether cost, drug availability or the patient developing a tolerance. Opioid equivalents and conversions charts allow doctors to switch drugs while maintaining the same level of painkilling effectiveness and avoiding overdosing the patient. Opioids are chemical compounds with...
What is oxycodone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Oxycodone is a strong narcotic pain-reliever and cough suppressant similar to morphine, codeine, and hydrocodone. The precise mechanism of action (how it works) is not known, but it may involve stimulation of opioid receptors in the brain. Oxycodone does not eliminate the sensation of...
What is methadone? What is methadone used for? Methadone is a strong, synthetic (man-made) narcotic that acts on the central nervous system (brain) in a manner similar to other narcotics. It is used in the management of narcotic addiction and for pain control. Methadone was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration on August...
What is Olinvyk (oliceridine)? Olinvyk is indicated in adults for the management of acute pain severe enough to require an intravenous opioid analgesic and for whom alternative treatments are inadequate. Limitations Of Use Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse with opioids, even at recommended doses, reserve Olinvyk for use in patients for...
Oxycodone vs. tramadol: What’s the difference? Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic narcotic (opiate) pain medication. It is synthesized from thebaine, a part of the poppy plant. Tramadol is a schedule IV, man-made (synthetic) pain reliever (analgesic). It is not a narcotic medication, and it is not a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs). Oxycodone is classified as a...
What is Savella (milnacipran)? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Milnacipran is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used for treating pain associated with fibromyalgia. It is similar to duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine (Effexor), and desvenlafaxine (Pristiq). Milnacipran affects neurotransmitters, the chemicals that nerves within the brain make and release in order to...