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Treatment, medications for osteoarthritis (part4)


Bangladeshpost
Published : 23 Sep 2021 08:08 PM | Updated : 24 Sep 2021 06:03 PM

Osteoarthritis can't be reversed, but treatments can reduce pain and help you move better.

Medications:

Medications that can help relieve osteoarthritis symptoms, primarily pain, include:

Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) has been shown to help some people with osteoarthritis who have mild to moderate pain. Taking more than the recommended dose of acetaminophen can cause liver damage.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve), taken at the recommended doses, typically relieve osteoarthritis pain. Stronger NSAIDs are available by prescription.

NSAIDs can cause stomach upset, cardiovascular problems, bleeding problems, and liver and kidney damage. NSAIDs as gels, applied to the skin over the affected joint, have fewer side effects and may relieve pain just as well.

Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Normally used as an antidepressant, this medication is also approved to treat chronic pain, including osteoarthritis pain.

Supportive devices:

Supportive or assistive devices help decrease stress on affected joints. Braces and orthotics help to support and stabilize painful, damaged joints. Medical devices should be used as instructed and under the direction of a health professional such as a physical/ occupational therapist or your licensed healthcare provider.

Courtesy: Mayo Clinic