Joint pain may occur with many diseases, but common causes are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and bursitis. Other causes may include osteoporosis, bone cancer, dislocations and sprains. Most joint pain may be treated with over-the-counter medications.
Treatments
OTC medications used for joint pain include acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen. The preferred treatment of joint pain in osteoarthritis is acetaminophen because NSAIDs have a higher risk of serious side effects than acetaminophen
when used long term. However, NSAIDs are used when the pain is no longer alleviated by acetaminophen. Rheumatoid arthritis and bursitis, which is inflammation of the fluid-filled pads in between the joints, may be alleviated with the use of NSAIDs.
Liver Function
Patients with liver impairment should consume low doses of acetaminophen. According to "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach," patients should not consume more than 4000 mg a day; consuming more may cause liver toxicity. The use of NSAIDs should be avoided in liver dysfunction.
Kidney Function
Patients with kidney dysfunction may need a dose adjustment of acetaminophen. NSAIDs can cause kidney toxicity in patients with impaired kidney function or dehydration.
Warnings
The "Drug Information Handbook" states that consuming three or more alcoholic drinks a day may cause liver damage. NSAIDs may increase the risk of a stomach irritation, stomach ulcers, bleeding, perforation and negative cardiovascular event, such as stroke, heart attack and high blood pressure. If over-the-counter medications do no alleviate joint pain, the patient should see a physician.
References
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- Merck Manual: Osteoarthritis
