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There is a number of prescription arthritis medications which health professionals can offer to treat rheumatoid arthritis. While these arthritis medications may not cure, they can bring pain relief, relieve symptoms, and even slow the development of rheumatoid arthritis.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce pain and assist with inflammation. These drugs may be used as an arthritis medicine and can be purchased over the counter and by. (Most people are familiar with aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.) The only negative aspect of these arthritis medications is they might cause stomach problems, such as indigestion and bleeding. They can also raise blood pressure in a person and cause susceptibility to fluid retention.

COX-2 inhibitors are a type of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which do not cause as much harm to the stomach. This class of arthritis medication operates by suppressing an enzyme known as cyclooxygenase which is an issue in inflammation. However, fluid retention and raised blood pressure are side effects of COX-2 inhibitors. It has also been said that individuals who take this class of drug may be at higher risk of a stroke or heart attack.

Corticosteroids are arthritis medications which may relieve pain and reduce inflammation. They can also slow down the damage to joints brought on by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, many arthritis patients who take corticosteroids have stated that they feel significantly improved. However, after a while the effectiveness of corticosteroids may wear off. There is also the chance of experiencing serious side effects such as diabetes, weight gain, and decreased bone density, after prolonged use of corticosteroids.

It is important to see a doctor at the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis. While modern medicine has been unable to discover a cure for arthritis, they do show progress in pain relief and bringing down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects the immune system. Immunosuppressants can be prescribed 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 together with an immunosuppressant. TNF blockers serve to block the protein which inflames the joints. Arthritis sufferers who use TNF blockers report reduced pain and less stiffness.

Those diagnosed promptly with rheumatoid arthritis can be given 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 good deal of damage to the joints can be forestalled.