Pharmacological options for low back pain

Analgesics are important in the management of low back pain, but their role is currently limited by the efficacy of available pharmacological options. Recent progress in pain research has greatly increased understanding of the pathophysiology of pain and the mechanisms of actions of analgesic agents, but the translation of research progress into new clinical treatments has been slow. Nonetheless, currently available agents (nonopioid, opioid, and adjuvant analgesics) have established utility in the management of moderate and severe pain. While awaiting new research developments, clinicians can improve symptom control and patient care in persons with low back pain now by optimizing use of available pharmacologic options.