Analgesics: Uses, common brands, and safety info

Almost everyone has felt pain at some point, making it one of the main reasons people visit doctors. Many people reach for medications to help them feel better when they experience pain. Taking an analgesic can often mean the difference between being able to get through the day and experiencing constant discomfort. Whether it’s a headache, back pain, or pain from an injury, analgesics can offer much-needed pain relief.

What are analgesics?

Analgesics are medications used to manage or reduce pain. Unlike anesthesia, they relieve pain without causing loss of consciousness. There are several types of analgesics, with the most common being nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids. Some are available with a prescription only, while others can be found over the counter (OTC).

Analgesics can differ in the types of pain they are used for; for example, NSAIDs are often used for mild to moderate pain, like headaches or muscle aches, while opioids are typically reserved for severe pain, such as after surgery or injury. Analgesics come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, creams, patches, and injections.

How do analgesics work?

Pain can vary widely, ranging from acute pain (such as from an injury or surgery) to chronic pain conditions (like arthritis or nerve pain). Analgesics generally work by reducing or blocking the transmission of pain signals traveling along nerves to the brain. 

Different analgesics target pain in distinct ways. For example, NSAIDs relieve pain by reducing the production of prostaglandins involved in pain and inflammation, while opioids act by binding to opioid receptors in the nervous system, blocking the perception of pain. Other prescription drugs, like certain antidepressants or anticonvulsants, may help relieve specific types of pain, especially nerve pain. 

The chart below provides some of the more common analgesics available.

Other analgesics

• Excedrin (acetaminophen/aspirin/caffeine)

• Lyrica (pregabalin)

• OxyContin (oxycodone)

• Capzasin-HP (capsaicin)

• Bengay Ultra Strength Cream (methyl salicylate/camphor/menthol)

• Prialt (ziconotide)

• Nucynta (tapentadol)

• Cataflam (diclofenac)

Many analgesics are available in several formulations, including adult and children's formulas (Tylenol vs. Children's Tylenol) and combination pain relievers (Advil vs. Advil Dual Action with Acetaminophen).

What are analgesics used for?

Analgesics are used to relieve pain caused by a wide range of medical conditions. Here are some common pain conditions that are treated with analgesics:

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Psoriatic arthritis

• Osteoarthritis

• Appendicitis

• Gastritis

• Fibromyalgia

• Tendonitis

• Bursitis

• Gout

• Nerve pain

• Sprains

• Strains

• Fractures

• Menstrual cramps

• Migraines

• Toothaches

• Multiple sclerosis

Types of analgesics 

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are medications that relieve pain, reduce fever, and decrease inflammation. They are commonly used for mild to moderate pain conditions such as headaches, arthritic conditions, muscle sprains, and strains. NSAIDs work by blocking the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes help produce prostaglandins, which are substances in the body that promote inflammation, pain, and fever.

Examples of NSAID analgesics: Motrin (ibuprofen), Naprosyn (naproxen), Voltaren (diclofenac), Bayer (aspirin)

Opioid analgesics

Opioids, also called opiate or narcotic analgesics, are powerful painkillers used to treat moderate to severe pain when other medications aren’t effective. They relieve pain by attaching to specific receptors in the brain, mainly the mu opioid receptor. Opioids can be prescribed for both short-term and long-term pain but carry a high risk of misuse and dependence. 

Examples of narcotic analgesics: Fentora (fentanyl), Ultram (tramadol), OxyContin (oxycodone)

Analgesic combinations

Analgesic combinations contain two or more medications, often including different types of pain relievers to target pain in multiple ways. These combinations commonly include an NSAID, opioid, or acetaminophen. Because opioids can be habit-forming, combinations containing them should be used only when other options aren’t sufficient. How these combination drugs work depends on which active ingredients they contain. 

Examples of analgesic combinations: Excedrin (acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine), Percocet (oxycodone and acetaminophen), Vicodin (hydrocodone and acetaminophen)

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibitors

CGRP inhibitors are a class of drugs that treat and prevent migraines by targeting the CGRP protein or its receptor. This group includes monoclonal antibodies like Aimovig (erenumab) and Emgality (galcanezumab), which are mainly used to prevent episodic and chronic migraine, and CGRP receptor antagonists such as Nurtec (rimegepant) and Ubrelvy (ubrogepant), which are used for acute migraine treatment and prevention. Some monoclonal antibodies are also being developed to prevent cluster headaches.

Examples of CGRP inhibitors: Aimovig (erenumab), Emgality (galcanezumab), Nurtec (rimegepant), Ubrelvy (ubrogepant)

Antidepressants

Certain antidepressants, including certain SNRIs and tricyclic antidepressants, are used to help manage various types of chronic pain, particularly neuropathic (nerve) pain and fibromyalgia. These medications may help relieve pain by altering brain chemicals involved in sending pain signals. They are often prescribed for chronic musculoskeletal pain and as preventive treatment for migraines and tension-type headaches. 

Examples of antidepressants with analgesic properties: Cymbalta (duloxetine), Elavil (amitriptyline)

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants, originally developed to treat seizure disorders, are often used for nerve-related pain. They can help stabilize nerve activity and reduce excessive firing of nerve signals that might cause pain. Common uses include the treatment of neuropathic pain from conditions like diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, and fibromyalgia. Some anticonvulsants are also effective for specific nerve pain syndromes such as trigeminal neuralgia. 

Examples of anticonvulsants with analgesic properties: Neurontin (gabapentin), Lyrica (pregabalin)

Local anesthetics

Local anesthetics are medications that block pain signals in a targeted area of the body. They are often used to treat localized neuropathic pain, such as postherpetic neuralgia or peripheral nerve pain. Local anesthetics provide relief by numbing the affected region without affecting the entire nervous system and are available in topical forms like patches or gels. 

Examples of local anesthetics with analgesic properties: Lidoderm (lidocaine patch), Glydo (lidocaine gel)

Miscellaneous analgesics

Miscellaneous analgesics include drugs like acetaminophen and ziconotide, which are used to relieve pain in different ways. Acetaminophen is commonly used for short-term pain and fever reduction, working mainly in the brain to reduce pain signals. Ziconotide is a pain medication used for severe chronic pain that’s given directly into the spinal fluid. In 2025, the FDA approved Journavx (suzetrigine), a new non-opioid analgesic for moderate to severe acute pain that works by blocking sodium channels in peripheral nerves.

Examples of miscellaneous analgesics: Tylenol (acetaminophen), Prialt (ziconotide), Journavx (suzetrigine)

Who can take analgesics?

Most analgesics can be used safely by men, women, and children, but it’s important to choose the right medication and dose for each person. Opioids require extra caution due to their high potential for misuse, dependence, and serious side effects.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the adverse effects of pain medicine, which can lead to complications, especially at higher doses. For children, the dosage of pain medications is often based on their weight to prevent giving them too much. In women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, pain relievers can harm an unborn baby or pass into breast milk.

RELATED: Children’s ibuprofen dosage

Are analgesics safe?

FDA recalls

• Alvogen issues voluntary nationwide recall for one lot of fentanyl transdermal system 25 mcg/h due to a defective delivery system, January 2025

• Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. on behalf of AuroHealth, issues voluntary nationwide recall of one (1) lot of Healthy Living over the counter (OTC) migraine relief: acetaminophen 250mg; aspirin 250mg; caffeine 65mg tablets, due to missing manufacturer label, July 2024

• Teva initiates voluntary nationwide recall of specific lots of fentanyl buccal tablets CII due to a labeling error, April 2023

• A-S Medication Solutions issues voluntary nationwide recall of acetaminophen extra-strength tablets, April 2021

• Tris Pharma issues voluntary nationwide recall of infants’ ibuprofen concentrated oral suspension, March 2020

Restrictions

Not everyone should take analgesics, and some types come with specific warnings. The safety and effectiveness of these medications can vary based on health conditions, other medications being taken, and the type of pain being treated. Consider these restrictions and precautions before using analgesics:

• Health conditions: Certain analgesics should be avoided in people with specific health problems. For example, NSAIDs are not recommended for people with a history of stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or severe kidney disease. Opioids may be unsafe for individuals with respiratory problems or a history of substance use disorder.

• Drug interactions: Analgesics can interact with other medications. NSAIDs may reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure drugs and increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants like warfarin. Opioids may interact with benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other sedatives, leading to slowed breathing or overdose. 

• Liver or kidney problems: An acetaminophen overdose can cause severe liver damage, particularly in people with liver disease or alcohol use disorder. NSAIDs may disrupt kidney function, especially in those who are dehydrated, older, or have existing kidney problems.

• Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to specific analgesic ingredients, leading to rash, itching, swelling, or more serious reactions. Anyone with a known allergy should avoid medications with that ingredient.

Before starting any analgesic, speak with a healthcare provider to discuss safe options, proper dosing, and potential side effects.

Are analgesics controlled substances?

Whether an analgesic is a controlled substance depends on its potential for misuse. Some analgesics, such as opioids, are controlled substances due to their high potential for abuse and serious risks like respiratory depression. Others, like acetaminophen and NSAIDs, are not controlled and are available over the counter or with a prescription. 

Common analgesic side effects

Side effects can vary depending on the type of analgesic used, such as NSAIDs, acetaminophen, or opioids. Common side effects may include:

• Stomach pain or heartburn

• Nausea or vomiting

• Constipation

• Drowsiness or dizziness

• Headache

• Dry mouth

• Sweating

• Liver damage (with high doses of acetaminophen)

• Kidney problems (with long-term NSAID use)

• Increased risk of bleeding (with NSAIDs or when combined with blood thinners)

• Itching or rash

• Slowed breathing or respiratory depression (with opioids)

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience side effects that are severe, persistent, or unexpected.

How much do analgesics cost?

The cost of analgesics varies depending on the type of medication, whether it’s OTC or prescription, and whether insurance coverage applies. Common OTC options like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are easily accessible, while prescription-strength NSAIDs, combination medications, and opioids tend to cost more.

Insurance plans may cover some prescription analgesics, but prior authorization or quantity limits may apply. Without insurance, costs can be significantly higher. Shopping around at different pharmacies, using prescription discount programs, or checking manufacturer coupons may help lower out-of-pocket costs. SingleCare offers a free savings tool and coupons that may also help lower the price of generic and brand-name pain medications.

Sources

• Risk factors for opioid misuse, addiction, and overdose, Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (n.d.)

• Current and novel therapies for cluster headache: a narrative review, Pain and Therapy (2024)

• FDA approves novel non-opioid treatment for moderate to severe acute pain, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2025)

• Aging and medications, MSD Manuals (2025)

• Evidence suggests a relationship between opioid misuse, tobacco dependence and respiratory diseases, American Lung Association (2025)

• Pain medication use during pregnancy, Seminars in Perinatology (2025)