The FDA has released a document that discusses safety concerns with different types of painkillers – this includes both prescription and over-the-counter pain meds. It discusses different types of pain relievers, their active ingredients, how they must be used as directed and concerns about misuse and abuse and steps for safely using opioid pain relievers. Here is a brief overview of what A Guide to Safe Use of Pain Medicine is all about.
- OTC medications that include acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Prescription medications that include opioid and non-opioid medications.
- Types of opioid medications typically prescribed are morphine, codeine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone.
- The FDA has recently notified makers of certain opioid drugs that these products will need to have a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) to ensure that the benefits continue to outweigh the risks.
- Types of non-opioid medications include ibuprofen and diclofenac, used to treat mild to moderate pain.
- Pain medications are safe and effective when use as prescribed. Misuse of these drugs, however, can be harmful and/or deadly.
- Warnings for use of OTC and prescription painkillers.
- Those taking painkillers need to know the active ingredients in their medications.
- Misuse and abuse of opioids and how to use them safely.