What is a narcotic by medical definition? By medical definition, narcotics are substances used to treat moderate to severe pain. In fact, the word ânarcoticâ is taken from the Greek word for âstuporâ. So, narcotic originally referred to substances that dull the senses and relieve pain.
The types of drugs that might be prescribed for sciatica pain include: 1  Anti-inflammatories. 2  Muscle relaxants. 3  Narcotics. Tricyclic antidepressants.  Anti-seizure medications.
Exercise Provides Sciatica Pain Relief. While it may seem counterintuitive, exercise is usually better for relieving sciatic pain than bed rest. Patients may rest for a day or two after their sciatic pain flares up, but after that time period, inactivity will usually make the pain worse.