Pharmacological alternatives for the alleviation of back pain.
Drugs constitute a convenient option for low back pain and are commonly used. However, evidence for their efficacy is meagre. Many drugs used for back pain are no more, or only slightly more, effective than placebos. Others have side effects that outweigh their usefulness in relieving pain. On the basis of the evidence, no drug regimen can be legitimately recommended for back pain. The management of back pain requires measures other than drugs. One exception is the use of willow (Salix) bark for acute exacerbation of pain. Ironically, for chronic low back pain, the most effective and long-lasting outcomes have been documented for normal saline by injection into tender points in the lumbar spine.
University of Newcastle and Department of Clinical Research, Royal Newcastle Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales 2300, Australia. mgillam@mail.newcastle.edu.au.
Nikolai
N
Bogduk
D000700:Analgesics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001416:Back Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000188:drug therapy; D009125:Muscle Relaxants, Central / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000700:Analgesics; D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D009125:Muscle Relaxants, Central