Question:
Does taking a narcotic (Vicodin, Percocet, etc.) reduce non cancerous low back pain better than Diclofenac (non steroid anti inflammatory)?
Answer:
No
MedHead Confidence Score: 5
Amount Saved: $200 Pain specialist office visit
MedHead Message:
Although narcotics do result in less pain in the short term, side effects and the need to increase doses outweigh the potential benefit over taking a non-addictive, non-steroid anti-inflammatory such as diclofenac.
References:
1. Abdel Shaheed C, Maher CG, Williams KA, Day R, McLachlan AJ. Efficacy, tolerability, and dose-dependent effects of opioid analgesics for low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Intern Med. 2016;176(7):958–96 2. Ebell, M, Grad, R. Top 20 Research Studies of 2016 for Primary Care Physicians. Am. Fam. Phys. 2017. May; 95(9):572-579 3. https://health.costhelper.com/pain-doctor.html
