Arthritis refers to a chronic and disabling condition where one or more of your joints are inflamed, says MedlinePlus. Symptoms of joint inflammation include pain, swelling and difficulty moving. Arthritis can be due to wear and tear or it can be the result of an autoimmune disorder where your body attacks itself. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are common types of arthritis. Many medications exist to treat your arthritis.
Acetaminophen and Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs
MedlinePlus states that acetaminophen is an over-the-counter pain reliever that serves as the first line of treatment for a type of arthritis known as osteoarthritis. Acetaminophen's side effects are minimal but taking too much of it can lead to liver damage.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen also manage arthritic pain. Common side effects of NSAID use include stomach ulcers, bleeding, kidney damage, heart attack or stroke. Avoid NSAID use if you have a history of liver or kidney disease and gastrointestinal bleeding, says Medline Plus.
Corticosteroids
According to the Mayo Clinic, corticosteroid medications can help decrease your inflammatory symptoms and calm your arthritic pain. These medications are available orally or as an injection. Weight gain, diabetes, thinning of your bones, high blood pressure and stomach problems are some side effects of corticosteroid use.
Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors
Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) Inhibitors such as celecoxib prevent your body from producing COX-2, an enzyme responsible for inflammation, says MedlinePlus. Heart attack and stroke are common risks for these medications.
Tramadol and Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs
According to the Mayo Clinic, Tramadol is a prescription-strength medication used to provide temporarily pain relief. Oftentimes, this medication is combined with acetaminophen to reap long-term benefits. Bleeding and stomach ulcers are just a few of Tramadol's side effects.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate and leflunomide protect your joints from further damage. Lung infections, liver damage and bone marrow suppression (condition where your body no longer makes enough blood cells) are just some of DMARD's side effects, says the Mayo Clinic.
Immunosuppressants
Immunosuppresants such as azathioprine help stabilize your immune system especially if you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (condition where your body is attacking its own joints). Immunosupressants can put you at risk for infections, says the Mayo Clinic.
Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Inhibitors
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors such as infliximab decrease joint pain, swelling and stiffness, says the Mayo Clinic. Side effects include infection, blood problems, congestive heart failure and lymphoma (cancer of your lymph glands).
