They work by blocking pain signals to the brain or interfering with the brain’s interpretation of those signals.
Analgesics are broadly categorized as being either non-opioid (non-narcotic) or opioid (narcotic) pain relievers.
Opioid drugs are medically used for pain relief, anesthesia, and to treat opiate addiction.
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They are not associated with the same organ toxicity or side effects typically associated with NSAIDs.
This is particularly true for older adults who are more prone to these effects.
As a result, most opioid drugs are controlled substances requiring a doctor’s prescription.
This would only be for short-term relief to avoid any risk of dependence.
Topical analgesics are rubbed onto the place where you feel pain and the medication is absorbed through the skin.
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