Does pain medication contribute to the "overmedication" of our society?

Devi E. Nampiaparampil, MD

Pain Medicine

Used responsibly, pain medication can be part of an overall treatment strategy that helps a patient function normally, explains Devi Nampiaparampil, MD, chief of pain management at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

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Help Relieve Pain With Strong Relationships

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

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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