If the meds make you loopy, then I would either do without or stay home. With back problems, the last thing you need is to fall out of a tree stand, fall down a ravine, or do something really nasty to yourself with your weapon.

I have had 3 neck surgeries, and it looks like they will go after my low back next, but not without a fight. I don't like taking the pain meds either, but sometimes I have no choice(my wife makes me). You could try breaking one of the prescription-strength pills in half and taking it with a tylenol or ibuprofen.