Using Meds to Manage Your Arthritis Pain: An Overview
U.S. News & World Report By Cara Murez HealthDay Reporter
TUESDAY, Sept. 19, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- Millions of Americans suffer from arthritis, and many reach for medication to ease their joint pain and inflammation.
The options might seem overwhelming, though. Here, the Arthritis Foundation offers some suggestions for meds that can be purchased at a local drug store or filled with a doctors prescription, whether your pain is caused by normal wear and tear (osteoarthritis) or inflammatory disease.
Over-the-counter meds
America's 25 Healthiest Communities
View All 29 Slides
Some of the best over-the-counter (OTC) medications for controlling arthritis pain are acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen and acetylsalicyclic acid (aspirin), better known by brand names like Tylenol, Advil, Motrin, Aleve or Anacin.
Ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
While those are pills, it's also possible to get an NSAID in topical form, like diclofenac gel (Voltaren). Other OTC creams for arthritis contain salicylate, capsaicin, camphor or menthol as the active ingredient.
