Compositions containing free amino acids have been found to provide effective pain relief in less than five minutes following administration. Suitable compositions include free leucine, free isoleucine, and free valine in a leucine:isoleucine:valine weight ratio of about 1.9:1:1.3. Palatability is improved by the addition of free glycine, such that sweeteners or other flavorants are not necessary. The composition can be a two part formulation in which certain amino acids are provided as a capsule or tablet in order to improve palatability.