If over-the-counter medications aren’t providing relief, your GP may prescribe an NSAID or an opiate-based medication. However, you should remember that these medications might only be temporary measures to help relieve your knee pain. There are health risks associated with long-term use. Depending on the condition of your knee and how well the medication works for you, you and your GP may eventually need to explore other treatments. Like over-the-counter treatments, prescription pain relievers don’t treat the underlying cause of the pain.
NSAIDs
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are medications that block the body’s production of chemicals that cause the feeling of pain.1
The effects of prescription NSAIDs typically last between two and eight hours. Some people may experience dizziness or headache, nausea, excess gas, diarrhea or constipation, extreme tiredness or weakness, and dry mouth. You should ask your GP how long you should take a prescription NSAID, as there are health risks associated with long-term use.
Consultation with your GP should be considered for any treatment option.
Opiates
For temporary relief of knee pain, your GP may prescribe an opiate-based painkiller. Because of potentially dangerous side effects of opiate medications, you should only take the dosage prescribed by your physician, and only for the directed frequency and duration. Depending on the prescribed drug, other special instructions may be necessary. Make sure you ask your GP or pharmacist about them.
It’s also important to remember that even though your knee may no longer be bothering you, your joint may still be in a compromised state.
