Pain that results from nerve damage can be especially challenging to treat. Nerve pain is often chronic, which means it can last indefinitely. While certain types of pain can be addressed with prescription pain killers, these drugs are not recommended due to the risk of dependence. Fortunately, there are many medications that can effectively treat nerve pain without these risks
Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, are available over the counter. They’re effective at treating minor bouts of nerve pain, as they can relieve swelling. For instance, nerves may become irritated by surrounding tissues, which can swell and put continuous pressure on the nerve. An anti-inflammatory drug can reduce tissue inflammation and relieve the pressure on the nerve, thereby lessening the pain a person experiences.
In addition to treating depression, antidepressants like SNRIs, SSRIs, and Tricyclics have also been effective at treating chronic pain conditions. People who experience pain on a regular basis have a higher risk of developing depression, which in turn can make the pain a person experiences feel a lot worse due to increased sensitivity. By lessening feelings of depression, a person’s response to nerve pain may also be altered.
Anticonvulsants are traditionally used to help people with seizure disorders. However, they can also dull pain signals received by the nerves. When treating nerve pain, doctors may prescribe anticonvulsant medications like lamotrigine, carbamazepine, or gabapentin.
All medications, even non-prescription drugs, carry a risk of side effects. When choosing a treatment for nerve pain, doctors must weigh these risks against the potential benefits a person may experience.
It’s also important for patients to understand potential side effects before taking a medication. That way, you can ask questions and get clarification on any issues you experience.