Medications
There are many different drugs that may be used to treat arthritis. There are some that are available over the counter in your local drug store or supermarket and there are others that must be ordered by your doctor.
Some of the more common medications used to treat arthritis are:
- Aspirin free pain relievers
- Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDĖs)
- Corticosteroids
- Cytotoxic Drugs or Disease modifiers
- COX 2 Inhibitors
- Topical pain relievers
- Hyaluronic Acid Injections (Synvisc and Hyalgan)
When you visit your doctor, you should review your medications with him/her. You should always be informed of what medications you are on. Some of the questions you should ask are:
- Name of the medication?
- How much and when do I take it?
- How long does it take to work?
- What are the side effects?
- What is it going to do for me?
- What other drugs should I not take while on this medication?
- When should I call you if I donĖt get relief?