IV pain meds are given in the hours and days aftersurgeryto control pain.
This article discusses common IV pain medications and why they are used.
It also covers the risks of prescription pain medication and some of the alternatives to IV medications.
Hero Images / Getty Images
You may also hear pain medications referred to asanalgesics.
This is a term used to describe a medication used for pain relief.
Opium is a narcotic extracted from the poppy plant.
This is because there is a high risk of choking.
IV medicine is also best for when you need immediate pain relief.
Pills or another form of non-IV medication will typically be prescribed.
No IV pain medication is considered “best,” since pain control is individual for everyone.
Your healthcare provider may offer alternatives to help reduce dependence and side effects, particularly from opioids.
You may be given opioid medications in pill form.
Summary
IV pain medications are used in the hours after surgery to help manage pain.
Common IV pain medications include NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, and opioid medications, such as morphine.
IV pain medications may cause risks and side effects, including constipation, vomiting, and addiction.
2015;8:753-765. doi:10.2147/JPR.S93547
National Library of Medicine: DailyMed.Ofirmevacetaminophen injection, solution[drug label].
National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.Morphine injection.
National Library of Medicine: DailyMed.Dilaudidhydromorphone hydrochloride injection, solution[drug label].
National Library of Medicine: DailyMed.Fentanyl buccalfentanyl citrate tablet[drug label].
National Library of Medicine: DailyMed.Demerolmeperidine hydrochloride injection, solution[drug label].
2015;9:923-942. doi:10.2147/PPA.S87271
American Academy of Family Physicians.Pain control after surgery: Pain medicines.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.Managing pain medication side effects.
2022;15:1633-1645. doi:10.2147/JPR.S361225
Lovich-Sapola J, Smith CE, Brandt CP.Postoperative pain control.Surgical Clinics of North America.
2019;35(6):1641-1647. doi:10.1016/j.arthro.2019.03.028
