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Return To Arthritis Article Archive   Search the Article Archives Medications and Rheumatoid Athritis By Martin Fedgil There is an array of prescription arthritis medications which doctors can offer to treat rheumatoid arthritis. While none of these arthritis medications cure arthritis, they can bring pain relief, relieve symptoms, and even slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. Anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs can reduce pain and deal with inflammation. These drugs can be used as an arthritis medicine and can be purchased over the counter and as a prescription. (Most people are aware of aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.) The only negative aspect of these arthritis medications is they might cause stomach problems, such as bleeding and indigestion. They can also raise an individuals blood pressure and cause susceptibility to fluid retention. COX-2 inhibitors are a kind of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which lead to less issues with the stomach. This class of arthritis medication works by suppressing an enzyme called cyclooxygenase which is an issue in inflammation. However, fluid retention and elevated blood pressure are side effects of COX-2 inhibitors. It has also been claimed that people 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 slow down the damage to joints caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, numerous arthritis patients who take corticosteroids report they feel considerably improved. However, after a time the effectiveness of corticosteroids may wear off. There is also the possibility of suffering severe side effects such as diabetes, weight gain, and decreased bone density, after prolonged use of corticosteroids. It is vital to see a doctor at the initial signs of rheumatoid arthritis. While modern medicine has been unable to find a cure for arthritis, they do show progress in pain relief and slowing down the progression rate of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the immune system. Immunosuppressants might be used as an arthritis medication to assist with he balance of the immune system. Without such treatment, the immune system in rheumatoid arthritis patients is not balanced and it is out of control. TNF blockers are sometimes given in combination with an immunosuppressant. TNF blockers work by blocking the protein which inflames the joints. Those on TNF blockers have reported that pain was lowered and stiffness alleviated. Those diagnosed promptly with rheumatoid arthritis can be issued with arthritis medications referred to as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. These drugs slow down the development of rheumatoid arthritis. So, if the arthritis is caught early, a lot of damage to the joints can be avoided. About the Author: Martin Fedgil is the proprietor of Great Arthritis Info This site contains the best collection of information and articles about arthritis. http://www.great-arthritis-info.com Arthritis Cause

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