Frequently Asked Questions

Pain Management

What is pain management?

Pain management encompasses medical treatments and techniques designed to reduce both short-term and chronic pain conditions. Healthcare providers use various medications and therapies to target different pain pathways, helping patients regain function and improve their daily lives. From over-the-counter drugs to prescribed treatments, pain management offers solutions tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

Chronic Pain Medicines

What are the main types of medications used for chronic pain management?
The main medications include acetaminophen (Tylenol), NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen), antidepressants (TCAs, SNRIs, SSRIs), anticonvulsants (such as gabapentin and pregabalin), and in rare cases, narcotics. Each type targets different pain mechanisms and requires careful monitoring for side effects.
Chronic pain persists for 3 months or longer, and can continue for several years. It’s more common in older adults and may be linked to underlying health conditions.

Inform your doctor about all current medications, vitamins, supplements, and health conditions. This helps prevent harmful drug interactions and ensures safe treatment. Regular check-ups are necessary to monitor side effects and adjust treatment as needed.

Physical dependence means your body has adjusted to the medicine and needs it to function normally. This can be managed through proper medical supervision. Psychological addiction involves craving the drug regardless of medical necessity, which requires immediate medical attention and possibly addiction treatment.

 

CBD Oil

What is CBD oil and how does it work?

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound extracted from cannabis plants (hemp) that works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Unlike THC, it doesn’t create a “high” but may produce beneficial bodily changes by stimulating CB1 and CB2 receptors to produce natural cannabinoids.

Research suggests CBD may help with chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, epilepsy, and withdrawal symptoms. The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a purified CBD form, for treating certain types of epilepsy. Studies also indicate potential benefits for Alzheimer’s disease, cancer-related symptoms, and skin conditions.

Hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, products with higher THC content remain federally illegal but may be legal in some states. Most non-prescription CBD products lack FDA approval, and regulations vary by state.

CBD can be taken in various forms, including oils taken under the tongue, capsules, topical applications, or mixed into food and drinks. Dosage varies based on body weight, product concentration, and intended use. Professional medical advice is recommended for proper dosing.

Current Status and Prospects for Cannabidiol Preparations as New Therapeutic Agents. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27285147

This article provides an overview of the pharmacology and toxicology of CBD; summarizes some of the regulatory, safety, and cultural issues relevant to the further exploitation of its antiepileptic or other pharmacologic activities; and assesses the current status and prospects for clinical development of CBD and CBD-rich preparations for medical use in the United States.

Cannabis and Cannabinoids (PDQ®)–Health Professional Version https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/cannabis-pdq This cancer information summary provides an overview of the use of Cannabis and its components as a treatment for people with cancer-related symptoms caused by the disease itself or its treatment.

Suboxone®

What is Suboxone®?

Suboxone® is an FDA-approved prescription medication that combines buprenorphine and naloxone to treat opioid dependence. Buprenorphine helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, while naloxone prevents misuse. The medication is part of a comprehensive treatment program that typically includes counseling and behavioral therapy to support recovery from opioid addiction.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4107914/pdf/40122_2013_Article_15.pdf

This review article summarizes research on how pain and pain management drug drugs can affect hormone production, specifically cortisol, pregnenolone, DHEA, testosterone, progesterone, estrogen, triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4). The article suggests that hormone testing at a pain establish visit would help to determine pain extremity and if hormone therapy is required to address pain symptoms. It also suggests that hormone testing be done periodically through a patient’s pain management because use of opioids may cause hormone suppression.

Take the First Step
Toward Pain Relief

Don’t let chronic pain or substance dependence control your life any longer. Contact Access Pain Solutions today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Frank Hackl and our experienced medical team. With five convenient locations across Oklahoma, we’re ready to help you start your journey to a pain-free life.