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Pharmacological management: Pain relief

This chapter examines the pharmacological management of pain relief in musculoskeletal conditions. It reviews the analgesic ladder and oral drugs used in analgesia, including tricyclics and other antidepressants and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In addition, topical therapies are discussed. The benefits, common side effects, cautions, and contraindications of drugs used to manage pain are included. There is also reference to the medications used in gastric cytoprotection as these are required to be co-prescribed with NSAIDs. Also included are aspects of patient assessment prior to treatment together with relevant patient information to ensure safe and effective pain relief.