What is the common treatment for cancer pain not relieved by over-the-counter medications?

Prescription opioids are the common treatment for cancer pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter medications. In cases where patients experience significant pain, particularly in cancer, opioids such as morphine, oxycodone, and hydromorphone are often considered because they are highly effective in managing moderate to severe pain. These medications work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and body that help block the sensation of pain, providing necessary relief for individuals who are experiencing pain related to their cancer or its treatment.

While corticosteroids can be used to reduce inflammation and may help alleviate certain types of pain associated with tumors or cancer treatment, they are generally not the first-line option specifically for pain relief when over-the-counter medications are ineffective. Acupuncture may help some patients with pain relief, but it is not universally effective and is often considered complementary rather than a primary treatment for pain management in cancer. Physical therapy can assist with pain management and improving function, but it typically does not directly relieve severe cancer pain on its own and is usually integrated into a broader pain management strategy rather than serving as the primary treatment when pain is severe or persistent. Therefore, prescription opioids are recognized as the standard approach for more substantial cancer-related pain relief when other methods have failed.