A pain medicine lessens the amount, duration, or sensation of pain.

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 Over-the-counter pain medicine

Many pain medicines are available over the counter, without a prescription. Common over-the-counter pain medicines include:
- acetaminophen
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are all NSAIDs.

Prescription pain medicine

Prescription pain medicines are available only with a prescription from a healthcare provider. Examples include:
- anticonvulsants, which can relieve chronic nerve pain. Examples include phenytoin and carbamazepine.
- antidepressants, which may relieve certain kinds of chronic pain. Common antidepressants include amitriptyline, trazodone, and imipramine.
- capsaicin, a cream that can relieve skin pain caused by shingles, nerve problems, and other causes
- corticosteroids, which can relieve pain from inflammation
- narcotics, which are the most effective for moderate to severe pain. Common narcotics include morphine, codeine, meperidine, and oxycodone.
- sumatriptan and naratriptan, which can relieve the pain of a migraine headache
- tramadol, which is used mainly for chronic pain

Side effects

All medicines have potential side effects, including allergic reactions. Other common side effects of pain medicines include:
- diabetes and osteoporosis with long-term use of corticosteroids
- dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea with tramadol
- drowsiness and confusion with anticonvulsants
- drowsiness, nausea, constipation, and potential addiction with narcotics
- dry mouth, drowsiness, and constipation with antidepressants
- increased blood sugar and increased risk of infection with corticosteroid use
- liver damage with high doses of acetaminophen, especially when it's used for long periods of time