Medicine for Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is the constant swelling and or aching of a joint. Arthritis causes pain and stiffness in the joints and in some cases can become debilitating. Medicines to help reduce both the pain and swelling from arthritis can be found in oral over-the-counter medicines. Other medicines that reduce arthritis pain must be injected.

Analgesics

Analgesics help decrease pain in the joint but do not reduce swelling. Analgesics come in pill and capsule forms and can be bought over the counter. Tylenol and Vicodin are two common forms of analgesics.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the joints. Corticosteroids can be injected directly into the joint or taken orally. Prednisone and cortisone are two common types of corticosteroids.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce both the pain and swelling in the joints. Common over-the-counter NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. NSAIDs come in pill and capsule forms as well as creams and ointments.

DMARDs

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) help stop the immune system from "helping" repair joints. With the immune system suppressed, less white blood cells and fluids will be sent to the joints causing less pressure and swelling.

Counterirritants

Counterirritants are found in creams and ointments and contain menthol or capsaicin. When rubbed on the inflicted area, counterirritants help block nerves from sending messages of pain to the brain.

References

• Mayo Clinic -- Arthritis