Are there prescription strength pain relievers?

Stacy Wiegman, PharmD

Pharmacy

Besides over-the-counter forms of pain relievers, there are also prescription strength pain relievers. Usually, prescriptions differ from over-the-counter by strength and ingredient combinations. Prescription strength pain relievers must be approved by a doctor and taken carefully as they have many different side effects. Narcotics are the most potent prescription strength pain reliever.

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Pain Treatment

Pain treatment varies depending on the severity of an injury or cause of the pain. Analgesics, or pain relievers, may be your first step. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin can treat mild to moderate pain. Stronger pain medication may be prescribed after surgery or more severe injuries. For chronic pain that persists, your doctor can help determine the best course of treatment or give you a referral for a pain specialist. Learn more about treating pain with expert advice from Sharecare.

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