Arthritis refers to a medical problem in which one or more joints become stiff and swollen. This may result in limited movements. Medline Plus indicates that an infection, a broken bone, wear and tear of the joints or an autoimmune disease can lead to arthritis. Fortunately, common drugs that treat arthritis exist to decrease these symptoms.
Naproxen
Naproxen, commonly sold as Aleve, Anaprox, Naprelan or Naprosyn, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication that reduces the amount of prostaglandin the body makes. Prostaglandin is a substance needed for inflammation, fever and pain. Medline Plus indicates that naproxen treats rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and juvenile arthritis. Its less concerning side effects include a headache, dizziness, hearing problems, ringing in the ears, mouth sores and constipation. Some of naproxen's serious side effects include itching, changes in vision, trouble breathing and swelling of the face, lips, ankles, eyes and lower legs. It is important to notify a doctor when naproxen leads to these effects. Taking such medications as captopril, phenytoin, benazepril or nadolol may require a decrease in naproxen's dose. Naproxen is a tablet or liquid taken daily or as prescribed.
Adalimunab
Adalimunab, typically sold as Humira, is a drug that belongs to the class of medicines known as tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Adalimunab specifically blocks TNF, substances in the body that lead to inflammation. Medline Plus says that this medication's less serious side effects include a headache, nausea, back pain and stomach pain. Some of adalimunab's serious side effects include chest pain, leg weakness, easy bleeding or bruising, a fever and pale skin. It is important to inform a doctor when adalimunab leads to these effects. Taking such medications as abatacept or anakinra may require a decrease in adalimunab's dose. This medication is an injection given every other week.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen, typically sold as Tylenol, Acephen, Tactinal or Feverall, is an over-the-counter medication used to decrease pain and relieve fevers. The Drugs website says that acetaminophen treats arthritis, muscle aches, toothaches and colds. Its serious effects include yellowing of the skin or eyes, clay-colored stools, dark urine, stomach pain and a low fever. It is important to inform a doctor when acetaminophen leads to these effects. Sometimes, acetaminophen can lead to an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing and swelling of the tongue, face or throat. Call 911 if any of those symptoms occur. Acetaminophen is a tablet or liquid taken daily or as prescribed.
