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.
Applying ice for 15 - 20 minutes at a time every three to four hours for the first couple of days of acute sciatica can help to relieve inflammation and pain. Ice can be applied more frequently if desired-wait an hour between applications-but keep each application under 20 minutes to avoid damaging tissue.