Cervical spondylosis is a condition that affects the joints and discs in your neck. It can cause pain, stiffness, numbness, or weakness in your neck, shoulders, arms, or hands¹. There are different types of medicines that can help with cervical spondylosis, depending on the severity of your symptoms and your medical history. Some of the common medicines are:
- **Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)**: These are medicines that reduce inflammation and pain. They include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). They are available over-the-counter or by prescription¹²³⁴.
- **Corticosteroids**: These are medicines that mimic the effects of natural hormones that reduce inflammation and pain. They include prednisone and methylprednisolone. They are usually taken orally for a short period of time¹².
- **Muscle relaxants**: These are medicines that relax the muscles and ease spasms. They include baclofen (Lioresal), methocarbamol (Robaxin), and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril). They are usually taken orally or by injection¹².
- **Botulinum toxin injections**: These are injections of a purified form of a toxin that blocks the nerve signals that cause muscle contractions. They include onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox), abobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport), and incobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin). They are usually given by a specialist in the affected muscles¹².
These medicines may have side effects or interactions with other medicines, so you should always consult your doctor before taking them. You should also follow the dosage and instructions carefully. In addition to medicines, you may also benefit from other treatments such as physical therapy, exercises, massage, acupuncture, or surgery¹. I hope this information helps you.
