Arthritis is a condition that most often affects people's joints, whether in the arms or legs, and sometimes in the spinal column. There also are types of arthritis that make other parts of your body ache, such as the lungs or even skin. Some common forms include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The trait that all these forms have in common is the pain caused by inflammation.
Celecoxib
Celebrex is the brand name of celecoxib, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, used commonly for moderate or mild arthritis pain. Along with the inflammation, celecoxib also can help lessen the pain, stiffness and swelling associated with arthritis. It is a prescription medication administered as a capsule. Common serious side effects from the medicine include throat soreness, a cough, a fever, sneezing, a rash on the skin and swelling in the legs, feet, fingers and face. Common nonserious side effects include pain in the back, nasal congestion, headaches, insomnia, and gas and heartburn.
Indomethacin
Indomethacin, sold as Indocin, also is an NSAID that may be administered as a capsule or intravenously. It most often is prescribed for sufferers of gout, a painful form of arthritis that is characterized by the crystallization of uric acid in the joints. It also may be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The most common side effects of indomethacin include headaches, diarrhea and indigestion.
Naproxen
Naproxen is the generic name for another NSAID that may be purchased over the counter without a prescription or in stronger doses by prescription. The most common OTC brand of naproxen is Aleve. It is used in the treatment of many inflammatory illnesses, including juvenile and rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. It also may be used to treat spinal arthritis known as ankylosing spondylitis. The most common serious side effects may include indigestion, belching, wheezing, chest pain, breathing difficulties and itching. Temporary side effects when you first start taking the drug may include noises in your ears such as buzzing and ringing or a loss of hearing. These should disappear as you continue taking naproxen.
Prednisone
Prednisone is a corticosteroid or steroid available by prescription only and typically only prescribed for severe rheumatoid arthritis. The reason this strong anti-inflammatory drug is not used more often for arthritis is the possibility of serious side effects, particularly with long-term use. For example, corticosteroids can give you glaucoma and hypertension and cause weight gain. If you take them for a long time, you can develop cataracts on your eyes, diabetes and more susceptibility to infections.
