There is a variety of prescribed arthritis medications which health professionals can offer to treat rheumatoid arthritis. While none of these arthritis medications cure arthritis, they can bring pain relief, relieve symptoms, and even slow down the development of rheumatoid arthritis.
Anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs can relieve inflammation and pain. These drugs may be pressed into service as an arthritis medicine and can be purchased over the counter and as a prescription. (Most everyone is familiar with aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.) The only negative aspect of these arthritis medications is they can cause stomach problems, such as bleeding and indigestion. They can also raise an individuals blood pressure and make them prone to fluid retention.
COX-2 inhibitors are a class of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which instigate less issues with the stomach. This class of arthritis medication works by suppressing an enzyme known as cyclooxygenase which is a factor in inflammation. However, fluid retention and high blood pressure may result as side effects of COX-2 inhibitors. It has also been claimed that individuals who take this class of drug may be more liable to a stroke or heart attack.
Corticosteroids are arthritis medications which may reduce pain and inflammation. They can also moderate the damage to joints brought on by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, a large number of arthritis patients who take corticosteroids report they feel substantially better. However, after a time the effectiveness of corticosteroids may decrease. There is also the possibility of suffering severe side effects such as diabetes, weight gain, and decreased bone density, after continued use of corticosteroids.
It is crucial to see a doctor at the earliest signs of rheumatoid arthritis. While modern medicine has been unable to come up with a cure for arthritis, they are making strides in pain relief and slowing the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Immunosuppressants may be prescribed as an arthritis medication to help control the immune system. Without such treatment, the immune system in rheumatoid arthritis patients is not balanced and it is out of control. TNF blockers are sometimes given together with an immunosuppressant. TNF blockers work by blocking the protein which inflames the joints. Those on TNF blockers report reduced pain and less stiffness.
Those diagnosed early with rheumatoid arthritis can be given arthritis medications known as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. These drugs slow down the development of rheumatoid arthritis. So, if the arthritis is diagnosed early, much damage to the joints can be avoided.
Michael Brett-Sinderman is the operator of Info About Arthritis which is a popular resource with extensive information about arthritis.
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Article added to SearchWarp.com on Wednesday, June 28, 2006 View other articles written by Michael Brett-Sinderman(7)
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