Medication for Arthritis
There are 171 forms of arthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, osteoarthritis is the most common form, followed by rheumatoid arthritis. The type of arthritis, along with the intensity of the associated pain, influences which medications might provide relief.
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Pain Control
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Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like analgesics containing aspirin or ibuprofen, manage the pain associated with mild arthritis. Prescription-strength pain medications, including narcotic medications, oral steroids and injections may be necessary when pain is severe.
Damage Control
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Immunosuppressant medications, also known as anti-rheumatic drugs, mute the activity of the immune system, slowing progressive joint damage associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and other arthritic conditions where the body attacks its own structures. According to the Encyclopedia of Surgery, long term use of these medications must be monitored by a physician.
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Muscle Relaxers
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Arthritis causes joints to stiffen with muscle spasms contributing to the pain. Muscle relaxers ease pain and pressure on surrounding nerves and improve sleep.
Antidepressants
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According to the Mayo Clinic, antidepressants might be prescribed to manage the arthritic pain associated with fibromyalgia, along with anti-seizure drugs (see Resources).
Warning
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According to the Mayo Clinic, rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the lungs. If you have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and experience painful breathing you should contact your doctor immediately.
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