Pain Management for Disc Degeneration: Understanding Medication Options

The discs that separate the vertebrae in the spine degenerate as a result of normal aging. Disc degeneration disease (DDD) usually doesn't require treatment, but it can cause chronic pain in some cases.

Acetaminophen

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) reduces the brain's perception of pain and has few side effects. It doesn't require a prescription and is generally considered to be effective for the treatment of pain due to DDD.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

• NSAIDs reduce the inflammation commonly caused by DDD of the lower back. Some types of NSAIDs such as aspirin are available without a prescription.

Oral Steroids

• Oral steroids such as Medrol are powerful anti-inflammatory medications sometimes used to treat DDD. They're typically administered in a high initial dose with subsequent dosages that gradually taper off in strength.

Muscle Relaxants

• Muscle relaxants (Valium) are general sedatives intended to relieve lower back pain due to muscle spasms. They are typically prescribed early in an episode of pain.

Narcotics

• Narcotics such as codeine allow patients to manage pain by causing a dissociative effect. They may be prescribed for severe back pain on a short-term basis only, due to their potential for addiction.