Chronic Pain and Prescription Treatment Chronic pain — defined as pain persisting more than three months — affects an estimated one in five Australians. Effective management often requires prescription medications alongside physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. Classes of Prescription Pain Medication Opioids For moderate to severe pain, opioids remain the gold standard. Common options include: Tramadol

What Is Tramadol? Tramadol is a centrally-acting opioid analgesic used for moderate to moderately severe pain. Unlike traditional opioids, tramadol works through a dual mechanism: it binds to opioid receptors and inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, enhancing its pain-relieving effect. What Is Tramadol Used For? Post-surgical pain Chronic musculoskeletal pain (back pain, arthritis)

OxyContin vs Oxycodone — Key Differences Both OxyContin and oxycodone contain the same opioid compound, but they differ significantly in formulation and duration of action. Feature Oxycodone (IR) OxyContin (ER) Type Immediate-release Extended-release Onset 15–30 minutes 1 hour Duration 4–6 hours 12 hours Use Acute/breakthrough pain Chronic pain management What Is Oxycodone? Oxycodone is a