injection Once a person is affected by Arthritis, it can continue to affect them for life. There is unfortunately no cure for Arthritis, but there are several medicines available which can help to alleviate symptoms. Some work as pain relievers, others reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis, and yet others control the disease itself. Arthritis sufferers may be prescribed just one or a combination of drugs.

Painkillers or Analgesics
Painkillers come in different strengths, from those that can be bought over the counter to the strongest ones which must be prescribed by a doctor. They may also contain anti-inflammatory medication.

Ibuprofen
Rheumatoid arthritis in particular causes pain from inflammation, which can be eased by taking Ibuprofen based medication or other anti-inflammatory drugs. Ibuprofen also provides some pain relief, but there is a risk of ulcers if it taken over a long period of time. Ibuprofen can also irritate the stomach, so is best taken with food.

Acetaminophen
Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is often accompanied by very little inflammation. Acetaminophen based medications relieve the pain but not inflammation. There is less risk of irritation of the stomach which can be caused by ibuprofen, and less likelihood of long term damage. However, if you are taking blood thinning medication such as Warfarin, or have a history of liver disease, then Acetaminophen based medication should be taken with caution.
Other painkillers include Aspirin and Codeine.

Glucosamine Sulphate
Glucosamine Sulphate is the same compound produced by the body and found naturally in cartilage and connective joint tissue. Cartilage lines the joints and acts as a natural shock absorber. As the body ages, its ability to manufacture Glucosamine reduces, which can lead to joint problems and eventually arthritis. When taken as a supplement it can stimulate the natural manufacture of Glucosamino-glycans, which can improve and repair joint function, lead to greater flexibility and prevent further degeneration. It can also help to reduce joint pain caused by arthritis. There are few side effects associated with Glucosamine.

Prescription Medication

Prescription Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs help to reduce swelling in the joints and inflammation and also provide pain relief. These include ibuprofen and aspirin based medication prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. More NSAID’s include Naproxen, Diclofenac, Piroxicam, and Nabumetone. Newer types of NSAIDS have recently been developed, such as Celebrex, Rofecoxib and Bextra. These are classed as COX-2 inhibitors and are designed to lessen the risk of stomach irritation. Side effects can include the risk of cardiovascular problems, so if you have a history of heart disease or strokes, you will need to discuss this with your doctor.

Corticosteroids
Corticosteroid medication are either injected directly into the arthritic joint (corticosteroids) to reduce pain from osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, or given by mouth (Prednisone) to reduce the inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis. However, the Corticosteroid injections, although effective at treating the condition, can cause damage to the cartilage, so are usually limited to one or two injections in a year. It is also recommended that those taking steroid medication have annual flu and pneumonia vaccinations.

Anti- TNF & Biological Response Modifiers
These drugs work by blocking the reaction of a chemical known as tumur necrosis factor (TNF). TNF is thought to exacerbating the inflammation and degeneration prevalent in inflammatory arthritis. They include Enbrel, etanercept, infliximab and adalimumab, usually administered by injection or infusion.

There are some associated side effects, and they won’t be suitable for everybody. However, people with psoriatic arthritis and very severe rheumatoid arthritis may find these drugs beneficial. They are often taken in conjunction with Methotrexate.

Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) These are often used to treat forms of inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
They  include immunosuppressants which slow down the activity of the immune system. This can therefore slow the progress of the disease and can be instrumental in reducing the amount of damage it does. They are often used very soon after the condition has been diagnosed. These include leflunomide, sulphasalazin, ciclosporin and methotrexate.
However, the side effects can be severe, so use must be carefully monitored by a doctor.

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