Case: Eva-May          

Third Visit - Symptom Control: Oral Medication - Prescription (opioid) analgesics

Click on a symptom control below.

Acetaminophen NSAID Oral steroids Muscle relaxants (or benzodiazepines) Prescription (opioid) analgesics Colchicine Antidepressants No oral medication

Not an appropriate management option for Eva May. Opioids appear to be no more effective in relieving LBP than are safer analgesics; moreover, they promote decreased reaction time, clouded judgment, drowsiness and other complications which can lead to early discontinuation in up to 35% of patients. There is also a potential for physical dependence. In patients with severe sciatica, prescription analgesics may, however, be an option.