The most commonly used medications to treat arthritis are painkillers and anti-inflammatories, which can be taken orally, such as paracetamol or diclofenac, or in the form of an ointment, such as capsaicin, as they help relieve the symptoms of pain and swelling in the joints, improving the quality of life.
However, your doctor may also recommend using medications that help lubricate and rebuild joint cartilage, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, as they act as natural anti-inflammatories that help reduce pain and inflammation gradually over time.
arthritis treatment should always be guided by a doctor, with individualized doses, as they can cause side effects such as gastric ulcer or kidney failure, for example. In addition, the doctor can also guide treatment with physiotherapy to help improve movement and strengthen the joint. See what arthritis is and what symptoms it causes.
Main Medications
The main medications used to treat arthritis are:
1. Painkillers
Paracetamol (Tylenol) is the main pain reliever used to relieve arthritis pain. It should be taken up to 4 times a day or as directed by a doctor and is usually sufficient to allow for daily activities. This medication should be prescribed by a doctor and used according to the intensity of each person’s symptoms.
Opioids, such as codeine and tramadol, for example, are more powerful painkillers, used in cases where the pain is very intense or does not improve with common painkillers. The stronger versions of opioids, such as morphine, oxycodone, and methadone, for example, are also an option for those people who suffer from very intense and limiting pain.
There are combinations of paracetamol with opioids that can also be used under medical guidance, such as Tramacet, which contains paracetamol and tramadol, or Tylex, with paracetamol and codeine.
2. Anti-inflammatory
Anti-inflammatory drugs such as diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen (Actron) or naproxen (Flanax), for example, which can be taken in tablet or injection form, are options that can be used in times of crisis, always under medical advice, because if they are used too frequently they can cause side effects, such as gastric ulcers and kidney failure.
3. Glucosamine and chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin cartilage supplements (Flextrin) are used to help regenerate and maintain joint elasticity and lubrication, with good results in some people. See what glucosamine and chondroitin are and how to take them.
4. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone (Meticorten), may be options in some cases of constant pain associated with chronic inflammation, and should only be used under medical guidance. Corticosteroids can even be injected directly into the joints, every 3 to 6 months by the doctor, helping to control inflammation and pain in the area.
Another injectable option is hyaluronic acid, which helps reduce pain and improve joint mobility.
5. Ointments
Topical medications, such as anti-inflammatory ointments or capsaicin, are options to apply to the inflamed area, helping to reduce pain and discomfort. They can be used 3 to 4 times a day for up to 20 days, under the doctor’s prescription, to avoid or reduce the need to use oral medications.
In the last instance, when symptoms are very intense and do not improve with medications and natural treatments, it may be necessary to perform surgery that can remove inflamed parts or replace damaged cartilage.
Natural Treatment Options
Home treatment for arthritis is carried out as an auxiliary form to the treatment prescribed by the doctor, to speed up the recovery from pain and inflammation or as an option for those people who have few symptoms or are only looking for prevention. This should never replace medical treatment. It consists of:
- Do physical activities, preferably swimming or hydro gymnastics;
- Do physiotherapy and pilates exercises at least twice a week, guided by a physiotherapist;
- Take care of your posture and use movement aids, such as ramps, handrails, and railings, at home and work, guided by your physical and occupational therapist;
- Massages with essential oils that help reduce inflammation, such as ginger, lavender, or basil;
- Turning to alternative techniques, such as acupuncture, can help treat some people by helping to control pain and discomfort.
- There are also foods with anti-inflammatory properties, rich in omega 3, antioxidants, calcium, and proteins that can be added to the daily diet to help fight inflammation, through fish, seeds, citrus fruits, red fruits, vegetables, coconut oil, and olive oil.
- In addition, some teas can be prepared with plants with anti-inflammatory properties, such as rosemary, to complement the treatment and according to the doctor’s advice.
