How Non-Prescription Arthritis Medicine Helps and What to Do If It Doesn’t Work

March 20, 2024 Bunty Goswami

Joint pain is a prevalent issue among adults, affecting millions worldwide. Arthritis is a leading cause of joint pain, contributing significantly to its prevalence. It encompasses over 100 different types, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common.

Arthritis can be managed with various over-the-counter (OTC) medications to ease pain and inflammation. Common OTC options for arthritis pain include:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, chemicals in the body that promote inflammation. The commonly used OTC NSAIDs for arthritis include Ibuprofen and Naproxen.
Acetaminophen or paracetamol: Acetaminophen works primarily as a pain reliever and fever reducer by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the brain.
Topical analgesics: Topical analgesics such as creams, gels, or patches containing ingredients like diclofenac, acelifenac, methyl salicylate, linseed oil or menthol provide localised pain relief by numbing the area and reduces inflammation on the skin’s surface. Volini Gel, moov, iodex, relispray, omnigel and IcyHot patches are effective OTC topical analgesics for arthritis pain.
Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements: These supplements are believed to support joint health by providing building blocks for cartilage repair and reducing inflammation in the joints. Tendocare tablets and Lubrijoint tablets are popular multivitamin supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin for joint pains.
Ayurvedic remedies: Ayurvedic remedies often contain natural ingredients like Boswellia serrata and turmeric, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and provide relief from arthritis pain. Himalaya Shallaki, Sallaki Plus Tablet, Mienta capsule and Himalaya Turmeric are Ayurvedic supplements that can be incorporated into daily routine for arthritis pain relief.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Ourdaily Omega 3, Zingavita Omega 3 Fish Oil, and Omega Daily Softules are popular choices for omega-3 supplementation in arthritis management.

These OTC products can be easily procured from online medicine apps. The online purchase makes healthcare seamless and delivers medicines to your doorstep on time. If you order from online medicine apps like Truemeds, which offer generic substitutes, you can save a lot on your arthritis medicines expenses.

What to Do if the OTC Medications for Arthritis Don’t Work?

If over-the-counter (OTC) arthritis medicines fail to provide relief, consult a doctor. They can evaluate your condition and guide you with tailored treatments that include the following:

Prescription medications: Your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relievers, steroids, anti-inflammatory drugs, or disease-modifying medications and biological response modifiers to manage arthritis symptoms more effectively.

Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help improve joint function, reduce pain, and enhance mobility through targeted exercises and techniques tailored to your specific needs.
Alternative Therapies: Alternative treatments such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or dietary supplements may provide relief for some individuals. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider to determine their suitability for your condition.
Lifestyle Modifications: Your doctor may recommend maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and incorporating gentle physical activities like walking, yoga or swimming into your routine can help alleviate arthritis pain. To reduce swelling and pain, you can also apply heat packs or cold compresses to affected joints. Heat therapy can relax muscles and improve blood flow, while cold therapy can numb the area and reduce swelling.

Further, protecting your joints from unnecessary stress and strain can help prevent worsening of arthritis pain. This includes using assistive devices like splints or braces, avoiding repetitive motions, and practising proper body mechanics.

When is a Joint Replacement for Arthritis Recommended?

Your doctor may recommend joint replacement surgery for arthritis if your joint pain is not reduced with medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. It may also be recommended for individuals with advanced arthritis who experience severe joint pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility that significantly impacts their quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. Joint replacement surgery aims to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance the overall quality of life by replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one. The decision to undergo joint replacement surgery is made in consultation with a doctor, considering factors such as the severity of arthritis, the extent of joint damage, overall health status, age and individual preferences.

Overall, it’s essential to communicate openly with your doctor to explore all available options and find the most suitable treatment plan for managing your arthritis pain effectively.