If your doctor has diagnosed your condition as having rheumatoid arthritis, you may be prescribed pain medication. Fortunately, there are many options available to you. In addition to prescription pain medication, doctors may also recommend disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, or DMARDs. These drugs suppress the immune system and can help reactivate past infections. The right treatment can provide a steady stream of pain relief without requiring you to take a pill every day.
Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve the pain associated with joint inflammation. These drugs come in different names, but they all have the same general effect. They work by blocking the enzymes that cause inflammation of the joints. NSAIDs work by relieving the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. If you have osteoarthritis, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be the right treatment for your condition.
Non-prescription NSAIDs are often used as the first line of treatment. Non-prescription NSAIDs reduce the abnormal immune system response to inflammation. Diclofenac gel is one example of an OTC medication that can be applied to the affected area. Diclofenac gel contains salicylate, an active ingredient. Other ingredients included in non-prescription arthritis medications include capsaicin, menthol, and camphor.
Hyaluronic acid injections are a treatment option for severe osteoarthritis of the knee. These injections restore joint fluid thickness, which improves joint lubrication and impact capability. However, it is unclear if these injections affect pain receptors directly. However, some research suggests that these injections may directly influence the pain receptors. These medications are effective in the treatment of severe osteoarthritis of the knee and may be an alternative to surgery.
These drugs are often used as the mainstay of pain control for patients with OA and rheumatoid arthritis. They can be used alone or in combination with nonpharmacological approaches. Among the most common types of medications, NSAIDs are used to control moderate to severe pain. They are most commonly prescribed as a single therapy, but may be combined with other drugs for optimal pain control. It’s important to find a suitable medication for the patient’s condition.
While nonprescription medications are an option for occasional use in cases of mild to moderate pain, they can be a risk for heart problems and gastrointestinal bleeding. In addition, NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may be prescribed as a temporary treatment for severe OA patients unless the condition has progressed to the point where it is inoperable. Lastly, patients with OA may opt for injections to alleviate their pain.
Until recently, the focus of osteoarthritis treatment has been centered on managing pain and restoring function. Many drugs, however, are associated with severe side effects and can even cause serious problems, like heart disease and stroke. In 2010, the Food and Drug Administration placed a clinical hold on a drug called tanezumab due to concerns about safety. But recent studies suggest that tanezumab can improve the condition.
