There is an array of prescription arthritis medications which doctors can give to treat rheumatoid arthritis. While these arthritis medications may not cure, they can relieve pain, relieve symptoms, and even slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
Anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs can reduce pain and assist with inflammation. These drugs may be used as an arthritis medicine and can be purchased over the counter and by. (A large number of people are aware of aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.) The only negative side to these arthritis medications is they can lead to stomach problems, such as bleeding and indigestion. They can also raise blood pressure in a person and cause susceptibility to fluid retention.
COX-2 inhibitors are a class of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which lead to less issues with the stomach. This class of arthritis medication functions by suppressing an enzyme called 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 said that individuals who take this class of drug may be at an increased risk of having a stroke or heart attack.
Corticosteroids are arthritis medications which may lessen pain and reduce inflammation. They can also moderate the damage to joints caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, a number of arthritis patients who take corticosteroids have reported that they feel significantly improved. However, after a time the effectiveness of corticosteroids may diminish. There is also the chance of experiencing significant side effects such as diabetes, weight gain, and decreased bone density, after prolonged use of corticosteroids.
It is crucial to see a doctor at the initial signs of rheumatoid arthritis. While modern medicine has not been able to discover a cure for arthritis, they do show progress in pain relief and bringing down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects the immune system. Immunosuppressants may be used as an arthritis medication to help control the immune system. Without such treatment, the immune system in rheumatoid arthritis patients is out of balance and it is out of control. TNF blockers are sometimes used in tandem with an immunosuppressant. TNF blockers serve to block the protein which inflames the joints. People who use TNF blockers report reduced pain and less stiffness.
Those diagnosed early with rheumatoid arthritis can be given arthritis medications referred to as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. These drugs slow the development of rheumatoid arthritis. So, if the arthritis is diagnosed early, much damage to the joints can be avoided.
About the Author Paulina Taymon is the proprietor of All Your Arthritis Info This site contains an array of very useful Arthritis information, news, articles and great resources. Visit: www.all-your-arthritis-info.com
