Acetaminophen

• This versatile and easy-to-find medication is helpful for many types of knee pain. It dulls extreme pain to a tolerable level and alleviates mild to moderate pain. This medication can be found at any drugstore and comes in a variety of store brands as well as popular name brands such as Tylenol. Acetaminophen is also often an ingredient in other, more potent pain meds such as Darvocet. It contains no anti-inflammation ingredients, however, so if your pain is accompanied by swelling you may need another medication.
  
  

NSAIDs or Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Medications

• This also is an easily obtainable medication that is effective on knee pain of many types. This type of medication also relieves inflammation and swelling. There is a risk of stomach problems and high blood pressure with extended use These medications are available over the counter and include products like aspirin and Ibuprofin, and name brands such as Aleve and Motrin.
  
  

Narcotics

• Narcotics are strong pain relievers that can be habit-forming. The use of narcotics for knee pain should only be considered if no other pain control methods work. They are very helpful and will eliminate pain immediately, but are short-lasting -- which is why they are so likely to become addictive. They are available by prescription only.