Final answer:
For pain relief, OTC medications like Tylenol and NSAIDs are generally used for minor pain while prescription opioids are reserved for more severe pain due to their risk of addiction and side effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best route for pain medications depends on the severity and type of the pain being experienced. For minor pain, over-the-counter (OTC) medicines like acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are often sufficient. When OTC medications are not enough, a doctor might prescribe stronger NSAIDs in higher doses or opioids. Opioids such as morphine, oxycodone, and Vicodin are very effective for pain relief but come with a risk of serious side effects, including addiction; therefore, they're typically reserved for moderate to severe pain and should be used under strict medical supervision. Prescription pain medication types include both opioid and non-opioid options, with opioids generally used for moderate to severe pain and non-opioids often used for milder pain. It's crucial to balance the risks and benefits, especially considering the risks of addiction, abuse, and overdose associated with opioids.