The most common type of arthritis worldwide is osteoarthritis. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes pain, decreased mobility and swelling in weight bearing joints, such as the knee. Medications to treat arthritis localized in the knee include analgesics (pain relievers), anti-inflammatories, steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS).
Types of Medications
Osteoarthritis is a non-inflammatory disease, so analgesics, such as acetaminophen, can help control joint pain. However, over time, the degenerative effects of arthritis can lead to painful swelling, so medications that help control inflammation are often used. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality states the drug classes used to treat arthritis inflammation are salicylates, NSAIDS and steroids.
Features
Salicylates and NSAIDS can be purchased over-the-counter. Aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are examples of anti-inflammatories available over-the-counter. Steroids are prescribed by a physician. According to experts at the AHRQ, when one medication is not effective in controlling arthritis pain, a combination of medications can be used. When analgesics and over-the-counter NSAIDS do not relieve pain and swelling, steroids can be added to the treatment regimen. Steroid use must be monitored by a healthcare practitioner.
Considerations
It is important to take arthritis medication as directed to avoid drug toxicity. Furthermore, many arthritis treatment medications contain similar active ingredients, so it is important to inform a doctor of all medications being taken to treat the arthritis pain. Taking analgesics and anti-inflammatories with food will help with stomach upset.
Warnings
Medications used for arthritis treatment have the potential to cause serious side effects. Salicylates and NSAIDS increase a person's risk of bleeding. It is recommended to monitor stool for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. such as bright red or dark tarry stools. Since many people have allergic sensitivities to salicylates and NSAIDS, monitoring for reactions during the initial phase of use is common. Additionally, experts at the AHRQ advise that prolonged use of steroids increases an individual's risk for infection, so maintaining regular contact with a healthcare provider is essential.
Prevention
Medications used for arthritis treatment do not cure arthritis but they can help a person to be more active by controlling pain and swelling. Experts at the AHRQ encourage regular exercise and a balanced diet to enhance the effectiveness of medications. A person suffering from arthritis should ensure that he is getting enough calcium and Vitamin D in the diet by consuming dairy products and green leafy vegetables.
References
- Pathophysiology: Biological and Behavioral Perspectives (Second edition); Copstead, L. C., & Banasik, J. L.; 2000
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
