Possible Side Effects
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) – Celecoxib (Celebrex®), diclofenac (Zorvolex®), ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), meloxicam (Mobic®), naproxen (Aleve®), and piroxicam (Feldene®)
Possible Side Effects
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Upset stomach
  • Nausea
  • Pain in the belly
  • Gas
  • Dizziness
Warnings
  • NSAIDs can increase the risk of serious stomach problems, such as bleeding or ulcers.
  • NSAIDs can increase the chance of having a heart attack or stroke.
Muscle Relaxants – Baclofen (Lioresal®), carisoprodol (Soma®), and cyclobenzaprine (Amrix®, Flexeril®)
Possible Side Effects
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Dry mouth
Warnings
  • Carisoprodol has a risk of abuse (taking more of the medicine than your health care professional has prescribed) and dependence (feeling like you have to take the medicine and cannot stop).
  • Carisoprodol can cause seizures.
  • Elderly people with liver problems should talk with their health care professional before taking cyclobenzaprine.
SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) Antidepressant – Duloxetine (Cymbalta®)
Possible Side Effects
  • Nausea
  • Dry mouth
  • Tiredness
  • Constipation
  • Decreased appetite
  • Sweating
Warnings
  • Duloxetine can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in young adults (ages 18 to 24).
  • It can cause liver damage, seizures, a severe skin reaction, and an increased risk of bleeding.
  • It can also cause a life-threatening reaction called serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include shivering, diarrhea, fever, seizures, and stiff muscles.
Opioids – Tramadol, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, morphine, and oxycodone
Possible Side Effects
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Tiredness
  • Sweating
  • Itching
  • Dry mouth
Warnings
  • Taking opioids often for pain can lead to misuse, abuse, addiction, and overdose. Overdose can lead to death.
  • Opioids can cause life-threatening breathing problems. People who have breathing or swallowing problems should talk with their health care professional before taking opioids.
  • Taking opioids while pregnant may cause the unborn baby to have a condition called neonatal opioid syndrome. This condition may be life threatening if not treated.
  • Some opioids can cause seizures.
  • Tramadol can cause a life-threatening reaction called serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include shivering, diarrhea, fever, seizures, and stiff muscles.

From: Noninvasive Treatments for Low Back Pain

Cover of Comparative Effectiveness Review Summary Guides for Consumers
Comparative Effectiveness Review Summary Guides for Consumers [Internet].

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