What is the name of the medicine for back pain? Common Medications Explained

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

An estimated 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives, making it one of the most common medical complaints. When discomfort strikes, it's natural to ask, "What is the name of the medicine for back pain?" However, there is no single answer, as the right medication depends on the cause and severity of your condition.

Quick Summary

Various medications treat back pain, ranging from over-the-counter options like NSAIDs and acetaminophen to prescription muscle relaxants, opioids, and antidepressants. The best choice depends on the specific cause and intensity of the pain and should be determined with a healthcare provider.

Key Points

No Single Medicine: There is no one specific medicine for back pain; treatment depends on the cause and severity.
OTC Options: Over-the-counter options include NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen) for inflammation and Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for general pain relief.
Topical Relief: Topical pain relievers like gels (e.g., Voltaren) can provide localized relief with fewer systemic side effects.
Prescription Medications: Prescription options include muscle relaxants for spasms, opioids for severe pain (short-term only), and certain antidepressants for chronic pain.
Medical Consultation is Key: Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific health situation.

Understanding Back Pain Medication

Back pain can stem from various issues, including muscle strain, inflammation, nerve compression, or chronic conditions like arthritis. As a result, the treatment approach is rarely one-size-fits-all. A doctor or pharmacist will consider the type of pain (acute or chronic), its source, and your overall health before recommending a specific medication. Medications are often classified into categories based on their mechanism of action, with options available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications

For mild to moderate back pain, many people start with readily available OTC options. It's crucial to follow dosage instructions and not use these long-term without medical supervision.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)

NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation, which is a common cause of back pain, especially after an acute injury like a strain or sprain.

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB): A popular choice for its dual action of reducing pain and inflammation. It's often recommended for the first few days after an injury.
Naproxen sodium (Aleve): This NSAID has a longer-lasting effect, meaning you don't have to take it as often as ibuprofen. It's useful for persistent back pain.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Unlike NSAIDs, acetaminophen is a pain reliever that does not have anti-inflammatory properties.

Mechanism: It works by affecting pain signals in the brain and spinal cord.
Best for: Mild to moderate back pain, particularly for those who can't take NSAIDs due to stomach issues, kidney problems, or other health concerns.
Caution: Excessive use can lead to liver damage, so it's vital to follow the dosage limits carefully.

Topical Pain Relievers

These products are applied directly to the skin over the painful area and deliver medicine locally.

Creams, Gels, and Patches: Examples include topical diclofenac gel (Voltaren) or other products containing ingredients like menthol or capsaicin.
How they work: They provide localized pain relief, with less systemic absorption than oral medications, which can be beneficial for those sensitive to oral pain relievers.

Prescription Medications

If OTC medications are insufficient, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger alternatives.

Muscle Relaxants

Prescribed for muscle spasms, a common symptom of back injuries like a herniated disc.

Mechanism: These medicines work on the central nervous system to reduce muscle tension and spasms.
Examples: Common examples include cyclobenzaprine and diazepam.
Side Effects: Drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects, so they are typically only used for a short duration.

Opioids

These powerful pain relievers are generally reserved for severe, short-term pain, as they carry a risk of dependence and other side effects.

Mechanism: Opioids bind to receptors in the brain to block the feeling of pain.
Usage: They are typically used under close medical supervision for no more than a few weeks.
Examples: Codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone are some examples.

Antidepressants

Certain types of antidepressants can be effective for managing chronic back pain, even in people without depression.

Mechanism: They are believed to affect the chemical messengers involved in both mood and pain perception.
Examples: Duloxetine (Cymbalta) and tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline.

Comparison of Back Pain Medications


Feature	Over-the-Counter (OTC)	Prescription	Prescription (Opioid)
Best for	Mild to moderate pain, initial treatment for sprains or strains.	Moderate to severe pain, muscle spasms, or chronic conditions.	Severe, acute pain only (short-term).
Examples	Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Acetaminophen, Topical Diclofenac.	Muscle relaxants (e.g., Cyclobenzaprine), some NSAIDs, Antidepressants (e.g., Duloxetine).	Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Tramadol.
Key Benefit	Widely available, accessible, can address inflammation.	Stronger relief for specific conditions, addresses underlying issues like nerve pain or muscle spasms.	Highest level of pain relief for severe pain.
Key Risk	Gastrointestinal issues, kidney damage (NSAIDs), liver damage (Acetaminophen) with long-term or high dose use.	Drowsiness, dizziness, dependence (for muscle relaxants), various side effects depending on the drug.	High risk of addiction, dependence, overdose, and significant side effects.
Usage Duration	Short-term recommended (days to a week).	As directed by a healthcare professional, can be longer-term for chronic conditions.	Very short-term only, with strict medical supervision.

Important Considerations and Safety

Before taking any medication for back pain, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause of your pain and recommend the safest and most effective treatment plan.

Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects for any medication you take. For example, NSAIDs can cause stomach issues, while muscle relaxants may cause drowsiness.
Underlying Conditions: Inform your doctor of any pre-existing health conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, which may affect which medications are safe for you to take.
Drug Interactions: Always disclose all medications you are taking, including OTC drugs, supplements, and vitamins, to avoid dangerous drug interactions.
Holistic Approach: While medication can provide temporary relief, long-term back pain management often involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments.

The Name of the Medicine for Back Pain: A Summary

To the question, "What is the name of the medicine for back pain?" the answer is that it is not a single drug but a category of medicines. The appropriate treatment depends on the specific circumstances of your pain. Your healthcare provider is the best resource for guiding you through the different options, from over-the-counter NSAIDs like Ibuprofen and Naproxen to prescription muscle relaxants, topical treatments, and other specialized medications. Always prioritize professional medical advice for managing back pain safely and effectively.

Learn more about back pain treatment and diagnosis on the Mayo Clinic website: Back pain - Diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

For inflammatory back pain (from muscle strain or arthritis), NSAIDs like Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or Naproxen (Aleve) are often recommended. For general pain relief without inflammation, Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a common choice.

You should see a doctor if your pain is severe, lasts more than a week or two, or if OTC medications are not providing sufficient relief. This is especially important if you have other health conditions like liver or kidney problems.

Some people find combining Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen helpful, as they work differently. However, you should only do so under the guidance of a healthcare professional and never exceed the recommended dosage for either medication.

Prescription muscle relaxants like diazepam can be habit-forming if used long-term. They are typically prescribed for short-term use to manage acute muscle spasms.

Topical pain relievers are most effective for mild, localized pain in joints or muscles close to the skin's surface. They are generally less effective for deep tissue or nerve-related pain.

Certain antidepressants, such as duloxetine, can help with chronic back pain by influencing neurotransmitters that are involved in both mood and pain signaling. They are used even if you are not experiencing depression.

Long-term use or high doses of NSAIDs can cause serious side effects, including stomach pain, ulcers, bleeding, and kidney or liver damage. It is important to use them as directed and consult a doctor if side effects occur.