Multiple Sclerosis: Pain Medicines

Topic Overview

Pain is a frequent problem for people who have multiple sclerosis (MS). Medicines that may be used to bring relief include:

• Nonprescription pain relievers. These include acetaminophen (such as Tylenol), ibuprofen (such as Advil), and naproxen (such as Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Amitriptyline, imipramine (Tofranil), or nortriptyline (Pamelor), for burning sensations.
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol).
• Gabapentin (Neurontin). This drug may also help relieve muscle stiffness and tightness (spasticity).
• Phenytoin (Dilantin).
• Pregabalin (Lyrica).

Some forms of natural or man-made substances related to marijuana, called cannabinoids, may help relieve pain.

Pain that does not respond to these medicines can sometimes be treated with an injection of long-acting anesthetic.