天美传媒

Abstract

Pain management remains a central concern in clinical medicine, particularly in patients with acute, chronic, or post-operative pain. Historically, opioids have been considered the most effective agents for moderate to severe pain. However, their use has been marred by issues such as dependence, tolerance, and opioid-related adverse events. In contrast, non-opioid analgesics—including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and adjuvant agents—offer a range of mechanisms and safety profiles. This article reviews and compares the clinical efficacy, mechanism of action, safety, and indications for opioid and non-opioid medications in pain management. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, emerging guidelines, and the need for individualized, multimodal pain strategies.