Which type of medication is typically used first for mild to moderate pain?

Non-opioid analgesics are typically the first-line treatment for mild to moderate pain due to their efficacy in managing such pain levels without the risks associated with more potent medications. These medications, which include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, work by inhibiting specific pathways that transmit pain signals and also help to reduce inflammation, thereby providing relief.

The use of non-opioid analgesics as a first step in pain management is grounded in clinical practice guidelines that prioritize minimizing the risk of side effects and potential dependency associated with opioids, especially considering the growing concerns surrounding opioid misuse. In contrast, while other medications listed, such as opioids, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants, have their places in pain management, they are generally reserved for more complex pain scenarios or conditions where non-opioid options are insufficient.