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Return To Arthritis Article Archive   Search the Article Archives Helpful Medications For Rheumatoid Arthritis By Maria Slatford There is an array of prescribed arthritis medications which doctors can supply to treat rheumatoid arthritis. While none of these arthritis medications cure arthritis, they can relieve pain, relieve symptoms, and even slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. Anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs can reduce pain and help with inflammation. These drugs may be used as an arthritis medicine and may be obtained over the counter and by. (Most everyone is familiar with aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.) The only negative aspect of these arthritis medications is they may cause 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 kind of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which do not cause as much harm to the stomach. This class of arthritis medication works by suppressing an enzyme known as cyclooxygenase which is involved in inflammation. However, fluid retention and raised blood pressure may result as side effects of COX-2 inhibitors. It has also been reported that people who are treated with this class of drug may be at an increased risk of having a stroke or heart attack. Corticosteroids are arthritis medications which can help with pain and reduce inflammation. They can also slow down the damage to joints caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, a good number of arthritis patients who take corticosteroids have reported that they feel considerably improved. However, after a while the effectiveness of corticosteroids may wear off. There is also the chance of acquiring severe side effects such as diabetes, weight gain, and decreased bone density, after prolonged use of corticosteroids. It is essential to see a doctor at the initial signs of rheumatoid arthritis. While modern medicine has been unable to provide a cure for arthritis, they are making progress in pain relief and bringing down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Immunosuppressants may 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 used together with an immunosuppressant. TNF blockers serve to block the protein which inflames the joints. Those on TNF blockers report reduced pain and less stiffness. Those diagnosed promptly with rheumatoid arthritis can be prescribed arthritis medications referred to as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. These drugs slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. So, if the arthritis is diagnosed early, much damage to the joints can be avoided. About the Author: Maria Slatford is the webmaster for Best Choice Arthritis<a/> You will find a useful collection of information about Arthritis along with news, articles and a huge range of resources. Arthritis Aids

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