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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Using medications may help relieve joint pain. Experts often recommend the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as the first line of treatment.Share on PinterestDesign by MNT; Photography by AsiaVision/Getty Images & Artinun Prekmoung/EyeEm/Getty ImagesJoint pain, swelling, and stiffness are the most common symptoms of arthritis, which affects about 1 in 4 adults in the United States. Medications for joint pain are available over the counter (OTC) and via prescription. They include oral tablets, topical gels, liquids, patches, and injectable formulations.OTC options are available at most stores and can effectively relieve joint pain. Prescription medications are an option when OTC medications are ineffective or when a person has particular health considerations.This article reviews some medications that doctors recommend for joint pain.The first-line treatment for joint pain may vary depending on the underlying condition, a doctor’s experience, and individual health considerations. For osteoarthritis (OA) pain, the Arthritis Foundation (AF) notes that NSAIDs are the most effective treatment for joint pain, as they block enzymes that cause pain and swelling. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are available as patches, topical gels, prescription liquids, and tablets.In a 2019 review, researchers noted that oral NSAIDs provide effective pain relief and help reduce inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The AF cautions that long-term use of NSAIDs can damage the stomach lining and cause gastrointestinal bleeding. These medications can also increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure, so a person should not use them for longer than a doctor recommends.If people cannot take NSAIDs, they can try taking acetaminophen to reduce pain. However, according to the AF, recent research has concluded that acetaminophen has little effect on OA pain. Still, it may help some people.A doctor may recommend two main forms of OTC medication for joint pain: NSAIDs and acetaminophen.Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)Ibuprofen is a type of NSAID. NSAIDs work by non-selectively blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) 1 and 2. Blocking these chemicals can reduce inflammation, pain, and fever.The AF recommends NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, as a first-line treatment for joint pain. Ibuprofen comes in several forms, in doses of 200–800 milligrams (mg). A doctor may recommend that a person take 400–800 mg up to three times per day.Ibuprofen may cause side effects. If the following symptoms are severe or persist, a person should contact a doctor: constipationdiarrheagas or bloatingdizzinessnervousnessringing in the earsIbuprofen can cause other side effects that may be serious. If someone feels unwell or experiences unusual symptoms, they should discontinue using ibuprofen and contact a doctor immediately.Naproxen (Aleve)Naproxen is another NSAID and is available under the brand name Aleve. It works the same way as ibuprofen, by blocking COX 1 and 2 and thereby reducing fever, pain, and inflammation.Naproxen is
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