The pain, swelling and stiffness of arthritis can limit your movement. Medications can help you manage your symptoms so you can continue to lead an active life. Talk to your health care provider about medications that are right for you.
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Over-the-counter pain killers
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with your arthritis symptoms. "Over-the-counter" means that you can buy these medications without a prescription.
Most doctors recommend paracetamol (such as Tylenol) first. It has fewer side effects than other drugs. DO NOT take more than 3 grams (3,000 mg) per day. If you have liver problems, talk to your doctor first about how much paracetamol is right for you.
If the pain continues, the doctor may suggest non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Types of NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
Taking paracetamol or another analgesic before exercise is OK. But DO NOT exercise excessively because you have taken the medication.
Both NSAIDs and acetaminophen in high doses, or taken for a long time, can cause serious side effects. If you are taking painkillers on most days, tell your provider. You may need to be monitored for side effects. Your provider can monitor you with certain blood tests.
Capsaicin (Zostrix) is a skin cream that can help relieve pain. You may experience a feeling of warmth and itching when you apply the cream for the first time. This sensation disappears after a few days of use. Pain relief usually begins in 1 to 2 weeks.
NSAIDs that come in the form of a skin cream are available over the counter or with a prescription. Ask your provider if these may be appropriate for you.
Steroid injections for arthritis
Medications called corticosteroids can be injected into the joint to help with swelling and pain. The relief can last several months. More than 2 or 3 injections a year can be harmful. These injections are usually applied in the doctor's office.
When the pain seems to disappear after these injections, it may be tempting to return to activities that may have caused pain. When you receive these injections, ask the doctor or physiotherapist for exercises and stretches that decrease the likelihood that the pain will return.
Other injections for arthritis of the knee
Hyaluronic acid is a substance already present in the fluid of the knee. It helps to lubricate the joint. When you have arthritis, the hyaluronic acid in your joint becomes thinner and less effective.
The doctor can inject a form of hyaluronic acid into your joint to help lubricate and protect it. This is sometimes called artificial joint fluid or viscosupplementation.
These injections can not work for all people. When they are effective, relief can last from 3 to 6 months. The use of hyaluronic acid is approved only for knee arthritis.
Supplements
The body produces glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate naturally. They are important to have healthy cartilage in your joints. Both substances come in the form of a supplement and can be purchased without a prescription.
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements can help control pain; however, they do not seem to help the joint develop new cartilage or prevent arthritis from getting worse. Some doctors recommend a 3-month trial period to see if glucosamine and chondroitin help.
The s-adenosilmethionine (SAMe for its acronym in English and pronounced as "Sammy") is an artificial form of a natural chemical in the body. The claims that s-adenosylmethionine can help arthritis are not well proven.