I have discussed the addictive nature of opioids, such as oxycodone or morphine, in previous posts. Because of the detrimental effects opioid addiction can have on human health, it is logical to conclude that alternatives must be found. While options for alternatives do exist, they come with cons that make them imperfect substitutes.
Alternatives to opiod medications for physical pain include acetaminophen, anti-inflammatory drugs, and nerve pain medications. However, these all come with their own risks, such as liver damage, increased risk of bleeding, and loss of coordination, respectively. In addition, these drugs may not be covered by the insurance provider, making treatment more expensive. Also, they are considered less effective than opioids, especially when it comes to sever pain. Because of these cons, it would be difficult to phase opiod treatment out entirely.
Despite the negative effects of the aforementioned opioid alternatives, there are some benefits that make them feasible for use in less severe cases. The most obvious benefit is that they present less of an opportunity for dependency, meaning addiction would be less likely. Also, the side effects of these drugs are fewer and less extreme than those associated with opiods in most cases. Finally, a plethora of treatments that don’t involve drugs at all can be employed to provide relief. Examples include chiropractic treatment, massage therapy, and counseling. These methods have virtually no side effects, but may only be effective in mild cases.
Source:
Brice Rider 