Analgesic medications are commonly used for low back pain (LBP). Evidence on the efficacy of pharmacologic therapy for LBP comes from clinical trials that have many limitations, including short-term studies and selective trial populations. Evidence currently supports the use of short-term pharmacologic treatment for LBP. However, the safety and efficacy of long-term pharmacologic therapy for LBP is uncertain and therefore best used with caution, monitoring, and as one component of a comprehensive paincare approach emphasizing rehabilitation.