NSAIDs in Treating Sciatica
Over the counter or prescription medications may sometimes reduce and alleviate the pain associated with sciatica. Treatment using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS can be very effective because some of the pain is caused by the inflammation of the treated sciatic nerve. Although aspirin may also help lessen the inflammation, NSAIDs have lesser gastrointestinal side effects such as gastritis or ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding. Each NSAID are somewhat different and it is always recommended to discuss the benefits and its side effects with your health care provider or pharmacists. Take NSAIDs with food to reduce stomach discomforts even if it may slow down the pain relieving effect. There are many options to consider and choices of NSAIDs to choose from like Ibuprofen, Naproxen, or the COX2 inhibitor drugs but this type of NSAID requires a prescription. Unfortunately, long term and regular use of NSAIDs can increase the risk for heart attack especially to patients with a cardio condition or problem. Acetaminophen, like Tylenol may also be used for treating sciatica pain. Let it be known that Acetaminophen is not the same as NSAIDs and their mode of actions are different, so the two medications may be taken at the same time or staggered. But remember to discuss it with you healthcare provider as this may cause you other complications if taken in excess. Several stronger pain drugs are also available through a prescription from a physician and may be essential to help relieve the pain from irritation to the sciatic nerve.