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Medications that can help relieve osteoarthritis symptoms, primarily pain, include: Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) has been shown to help some people with osteoarthritis who have mild to moderate pain.
Corticosteroid medications, such as prednisone, reduce inflammation and pain and slow joint damage. Corticosteroids may be given as a pill or as an injection into the painful joint. Side effects may include thinning of bones, weight gain and diabetes. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
Osteoarthritis symptoms can usually be managed, although the damage to joints can't be reversed. Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and receiving certain treatments might slow progression of the disease and help improve pain and joint function.
Many types of medications are available for arthritis pain relief. Most are relatively safe, but no medication is completely free of side effects. Talk with your doctor to formulate a medication plan for your specific pain symptoms.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a common treatment for osteoarthritis. But the kind you take by mouth, called oral NSAIDs, can cause stomach upset and heart problems. Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, however, have a lower risk of both.
Can glucosamine supplements protect my knee cartilage from osteoarthritis? Answer From Brent A. Bauer, M.D. Study results on this question have been mixed, with some suggesting possible benefit and some showing no benefit on cartilage protection.
As in your mother’s situation, medications such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, frequently are used to control osteoarthritis. Several topical medications are available that can reduce joint pain, too.
Cortisone shots might be most effective in treating inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. They also can be part of treatment for other conditions, including: Back pain. Bursitis. Gout. Osteoarthritis. Psoriatic arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis. Tendinitis.
If you can safely tolerate medications such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, these can be effective first-line therapies for pain. Topical NSAIDs also are available that can be rubbed over the affected joint.
If you're undergoing osteoporosis treatment, you're taking a step in the right direction for your bone health. But perhaps you have questions about your therapy. Is the medicine you're taking the best one for you?