Many diseases and injuries cause joint pain. Chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus may cause joint pain, along with acute diseases such as Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr virus and the flu, the University of Maryland Medical Center states. Acute flare-up of bursitis, tendinitis and gout can also cause joint pain. Most joint pain responds to readily available over-the-counter medications, although some cases may require prescription medications.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen, sold commercially as Tylenol, effectively relieves joint pain without inflammation, the Merck Manual states. Some studies show that acetaminophen is as effective as aspirin or ibuprofen for mild to moderate pain, HealthWise states.
Acetaminophen doses should not exceed 4,000 milligrams per day, or serious liver damage can result. Side effects, which occur rarely, include nausea and skin rash.
Aspirin
Aspirin, which is classed as a non steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, reduces pain by decreasing swelling and inflammation.
Despite being readily available over-the-counter, aspirin is not a benign drug. Aspirin can cause internal bleeding from stomach irritation and ulcer development. People who drink alcohol daily, take corticosteroid medications, have a history of ulcers and are over age 60 are more likely to develop ulcers. Chronic aspirin use also prolongs bleeding time and makes it harder for blood to clot. Severe allergic reactions can also occur with aspirin, even in people who have taken the drug for many years, the Hospital for Special surgery warns. Aspirin poisoning, or overdose, can also occur in people taking several over-the-counter preparations without realizing that they contain aspirin. Ringing in the ear, dizziness, headaches and confusion can indicate aspirin poisoning.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen, a non steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, blocks pain by reducing production of prostaglandins, substances that produce swelling and inflammation.
Ibuprofen, which is sold in low doses over-the-counter and in higher doses by prescription, can cause ulcers and allergic reactions. People who are allergic to aspirin may also be allergic to ibuprofen. A rare but extremely dangerous complication of ibuprofen is development of skin diseases that cause blistering or peeling, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrosis or exfoliative dermatitis, NetDoctor UK warns. These complications normally occur within the first month of treatment and require immediate medical attention.
Corticosteroids
When acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can't handle joint pain, corticosteroid medications may help. Corticosteroids both reduce inflammation in the joints and also suppress the immune system, which plays a part in joint pain related diseases such as systemic lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Corticosteroids have significant side effects, especially if taken long-term. Side effects include mood swings, weight gain, acne, bone loss, diabetes, thinning skin, easy bruising and high blood pressure, the University of Washington states.
