Disclaimer: This post shouldn’t be taken as medical advice. You should always confer with your physician before starting or stopping any medication regimen. The information contained herein is general.
Chronic inflammation is the root of numerous diseases, and arthritis is one such condition. While there is no cure for arthritis, medications can help to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a common medication used to treat arthritis, and there are many different NSAIDs available.
The thing is, each person’s experience with NSAIDs will be different, so it is important to work with your family doctor to find the right NSAID for you. This blog post by Quality Recovery will explore some of the most helpful NSAIDs available by prescription.
Pain Relief: How NSAIDs Work?
NSAIDs are the type of drugs that work on a chemical level to block the production of certain enzymes in the body that are responsible for inflammation and pain.
The primary benefit of using NSAIDs is that they can help to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. It is a good option for people with arthritis looking for relief from their symptoms.
However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication, including NSAIDs. They will be able to recommend an NSAID that is best suited to your specific needs and health history.
Most Common & Helpful NSAIDs
Some of the most commonly prescribed NSAIDs include naproxen, ibuprofen, celecoxib, diclofenac, meloxicam, and ketoprofen. Each has different benefits and life-altering risks.
Let’s explore these in detail:
- Naproxen: This NSAID is particularly effective at reducing the pain and stiffness of arthritis, making it a go-to choice for many people with this condition.
- Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used NSAIDs globally. It’s effective against headaches, fevers, and various other aches and pains.
- Celecoxib: Celecoxib is considered to be one of the safer choices when it comes to NSAIDs. While still not risk-free, it has been shown to cause fewer side effects than many other options.
- Diclofenac: Diclofenac is a powerful NSAID that quickly relieves pain and inflammation without causing sleepiness or drowsiness. It is often used to treat arthritis, migraines, and sports injuries.
- Meloxicam: Meloxicam is another powerful NSAID that is often used to treat gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis. Like diclofenac, it can help relieve pain and inflammation without making you feel sleepy or drowsy.
- Ketoprofen: Ketoprofen is a less typically used NSAID that is sometimes prescribed for people who cannot take other NSAIDs. It is generally well-tolerated but can cause side effects, such as stomach pain and bleeding.
If you are dealing with pain or inflammation, talk to your doctor about whether an NSAID may be right. While they are not appropriate for all, they can be helpful for many people in managing their symptoms.
If you are darting for pain management in the Philadelphia area, look no further than Quality Recovery. We offer various services to help those suffering from chronic or post-op pain, including injections, physical therapy, and more.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get on the road to recovery from NSAIDs.
