Pain is discomforting and unpleasant. We cringe when we are in pain brought by certain situations like twisting an ankle or figuring in an automobile accident. We are fortunate, though, to be living in a world that is highly advanced in terms of science and technology. In the ancient times, men had to pray to the spirits in hopes of easing their pain. But today, we just need to see a doctor and seek medical advice as to what causes the pain we are feeling.

Many of us can deal with pain that lasts for an hour or so.  For instance, most people can just shrug off pain brought about by mild burns. Sustaining a cut on the finger is painful for several minutes, until the wound is disinfected and applied with a patch.

But most of us can’t deal with chronic pain, which is defined as any pain that lasts for three to six months. Injuring a part of the body like the knee or ankle can bring chronic pain to athletes. Figuring in an automobile accident can do the same to a motorist.  With the help of certain medications, pain can be eased a bit and hasten the recovery process as a consequence.

One of these medications is Vicodin, an analgesic or pain medication that combines synthetic opiate hydrocodone, a narcotic pain reliever and acetaminophen, a non-narcotic pain reliever. Acetaminophen is an ingredient found in many over-the-counter drugs such as those for fever, cough and colds.

The drug works in the body to change how the immune system perceives and fights off the pain felt by the body. It can be prescribed for pain caused by various sicknesses like cancer and fever.

Vicodin comes in various dosages, from 10 mg to 500 mg to 750 mg which is the maximum dosage. It is taken orally, with or without food. Like most pain medications, it can best treat pain when it is taken as the first signs of pain occur.

There are some side effects that may occur as a result of using this drug. These side effects include drowsiness, lightheadedness, vomiting, constipation and nausea. Usually, the side effects decrease when the person using the drug has adjusted to the medication. Constipation can be prevented by maintaining a fiber-rich diet and drinking lots of water.

OxyContin is also given to persons who are in pain. A narcotic analgesic, it is effective in relieving moderate to severe pain. It is taken orally every 12 hours. A patient may take it with or without food. The tablet is swallowed whole, as breaking or crushing it can increase the risk of drug overdose. Like Vicodin, taking of OxyContin can also result to side effects like vomiting, fatigue, dry mouth, sweating, dizziness and drowsiness. Again, the side effects may decrease over time.

Anyone should not live in pain, especially pain that are health-related. By taking drugs like OxyContin and Vicodin, people suffering from chronic pain have a better shot at relieving the aches they have been dealing with for some time.

Propecia – prostate gland
Celebrex – acute pain 
Herceptin– breast cancer
Lipitor– cholesterol
Oxycotin– pain
Spiriva – breathing problems
Lyrica – nerve pain caused by spinal cord injury
Nexium– acid reflux, ulcer
Pradaxa – blood clots
Prozac – antidepressant
Restasis – dry eye therapy