What's a Good Arthritis Medicine for Me, Doctor?

Pain is the bodys warning signal that something is wrong. If the pain is due to overuse or arthritis there are many things to consider. In all likelihood, one of the first things a person will reach for is an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicine.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines work by blocking the synthesis of cyclooxygenase, the enzyme responsible for the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. The two different pathways that are blocked are COX-1 and COX-2.

Despite the negative publicity surrounding COX-2 drugs, it is clear that all anti-inflammatory drugs have potential cardiovascular risks. These drugs also may inhibit bone and tendon healing. They may also block the absorption of nutrients... So the weekend warrior needs to take notice.

Nonetheless, anti-inflammatory drugs remain a bulwark for the treatment of painful episodes.

Here are some simple suggestions:

If youre going to undertake an activity that youre sure will cause a problem, its OK to pop a small amount... say 200 mgs of ibuprofen before you do whatever youre going to do. Unless its a marathon. Dehydration and anti-inflammatory drugs do not mix!

After your activity, its also OK to pop a bit of ibuprofen or naproxen (200 mgs). Just make sure youre well hydrated. Also do not take these medicines if you have any underlying liver, kidney, or heart disease!

If you already take anti-inflammatory drugs on a regular basis, remain well-hydrated, and avoid alcohol when exercising or undertaking strenuous activity. With the recent data regarding cardiovascular risk, its a good idea to get your heart checked out.

Make sure you take your anti-inflammatory medicines with food. Sometimes people who develop indigestion with anti-inflammatory medicines but who do not have an ulcer will benefit from taking a proton pump inhibitor medicine such as Nexium or Protonix.

If you absolutely cant take anti-inflammatory medicines because of a true allergy or if you have an ulcer- or another valid reason- you can try acetaminophen (Tylenol). The primary concerns here are that you not take this drug with alcohol (liver toxicity is increased) and you should not take this drug if you have significant liver or kidney disease.

Always consult with your physician prior to taking these medicines on a regular basis. Anti-inflammatory drugs may affect the metabolism of other prescription drugs.

Related Links:

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is an inflammatory disease of the joints and other parts of the body. Arthritis is actually more than 100 different diseases and affects one out of every 7 people of all ages. People with arthritis experience pain and loss of movement and function. Arthritis can be very disabling and is a lifelong disease, but can go into remission. Each type of arthritis is different and has a different cause.
Literally means joint inflammation. Can be used to indicate a group of more than 100 rheumatic diseases. These diseases affect not only the joints but also other connective tissues of the body, including important supporting structures such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments, as well as the protective covering of internal organs.
Inflammation of a joint. An increase in the amount of synovial fluid in the joint is a result of this inflammation. Accumulation of synovial fluid in the fetlock joint is called a "wind puff" or "wind gall." In young horses, a swelling in the fetlock joint, particularly on the front of the joint where the cannon and long pastern bones meet, is called a "green osselet." This swelling is a result of inflammation and reactive changes of the front edges of these two bones and adjacent cartilage.