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NSAIDs for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Option in Mukundapur

NSAIDs

NSAIDs for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Option in Mukundapur

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines are a class of non-opioid analgesics that are mostly used to treat minor pain symptoms in the body. They can be offered as tablets, capsules, liquids, gels, lotions, and supplements, among other forms. NSAIDs can be used to treat a wide range of symptoms, including menstrual cramps, bursitis, back pain, tendinitis, arthritis, and muscular aches. They are widely used for the treatment of various rheumatologic conditions as they have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In Rheumatology, NSAIDs are primarily used to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve function in conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout. These drugs work by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, COX-1 and COX-2, which play a key role in the inflammatory process.

There are also some adverse effects associated with NSAIDs. But when taken as directed, NSAIDs are generally safe. You should stop taking NSAIDs and see a healthcare physician if your symptoms last longer than a few days. It is recommended to avoid taking NSAIDs if the person has stomach ulcers, renal illness, uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, heart failure, stroke, history of heart attack, and other medical conditions. As they might not be appropriate for some medical conditions, before using NSAIDs, speak with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific medical situation. At Manipal Hospitals in Mukundapur, rheumatologists recommend the best and most personalised treatment for your condition, ensuring enhanced treatment outcomes.

FAQ's

NSAIDs are frequently used to lessen the signs of:

  • Headaches
  • Backaches
  • Inflammation
  • Tendonitis
  • Muscle and joint pains
  • Sprains and strains
  • Conditions like arthritis, which can cause chronic discomfort
  • Cold and flu
  • Toothaches
  • Menstrual cramps

These anti-inflammatory drugs are available in a number of forms, such as:

  • Tablets or capsules

  • Drinks (which are effective if you have trouble swallowing tablets)

  • Creams and gels can help with pain in small regions like the wrist or shoulder and lower your risk of heart problems and stomach discomfort from NSAIDs.

  • Your doctor will often use injections to treat mild, moderate, or severe pain.

  • For those who are unable to swallow their medication, suppositories are an option.

Some NSAIDs require a prescription, while others are available over-the-counter at pharmacies. Some of the most commonly used NSAID drugs are:

  • Meloxicam
  • Ibuprofen
  • Naproxen
  • Digoxin
  • Celecoxib
  • Mefenamic acid

For pain treatment, use etoricoxib, indomethacin, and aspirin (low-dose aspirin is not typically considered an NSAID). These names, or a brand name, may be used to sell or prescribe NSAIDs.

The majority of people can use NSAIDs, although some people should be careful when doing so. Before using an NSAID, it's important to consult a doctor or chemist if you:

  • are over 65

  • are nursing, are pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • have asthma

  • have previously experienced an allergic reaction to NSAIDs

  • have previously experienced stomach ulcers

  • have any issues with the heart, liver, kidneys, blood pressure, circulation, or bowels

  • are taking other medications

  • are looking for medication for a child under 16 (do not give any medication that contains aspirin to children under 16)

NSAIDs inhibit the production of specific molecules by your body that lead to inflammation. The cyclooxygenase (COX-2) enzyme in your body produces the compounds that lead to pain, fever, and inflammation. NSAIDs prevent these symptoms by preventing you from producing this enzyme.

If you have a fever or pain, don't take an over-the-counter NSAID continuously for longer than three days or ten days unless your doctor permits you to do so. While they are an effective pain reliever, over-the-counter NSAIDs should only be used temporarily.

NSAIDs are prescribed by doctors in varying dosages based on your health. Depending on how long the medication remains in your body, doses might vary from one to four times per day. For example, if you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), your doctor might prescribe greater doses of NSAIDs because RA frequently causes a lot of heat, swelling, redness, and stiffness in the joints. For osteoarthritis and muscular injuries, lower doses might be sufficient because the joints usually show less swelling and, frequently, no warmth or redness. No single NSAID offers a 100% success rate. Your physician may prescribe a variety of NSAIDs before determining which one is most effective for you.

When taken for short periods of time and at small doses, NSAIDs are mostly safe. The majority of the time, side effects occur after taking high doses for extended periods of time (months or years). Some minor side effects disappear on their own or when you cut back on the dosage. While some might be more dangerous and require medical attention. NSAID side effects that are common include:

  • Constipation, diarrhoea, heartburn, gas, bloating, nausea, and vomiting
  • Ulceration in the stomach
  • Allergic reaction
  • An increased tendency to bleed, particularly after using aspirin
  • Headaches and lightheadedness
  • Dizziness
  • Ear ringing
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Allergic responses that include swelling in the throat, wheezing, and rashes
  • Renal or liver problems
  • Elevated blood pressure
  • Leg oedema
  • In rare cases: heart attacks and strokes

If you have heart or stomach issues that prevent you from taking NSAIDs, or if you are unable to tolerate the adverse effects, some options are as follows:

  • Topical medications like lidocaine. They often have little effect on your heart and help lessen gastrointestinal discomfort.

  • Yoga, Acupuncture, Physical Therapy, and Massage

  • Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving, nonacetylated salicylates are often less likely to induce stomach issues.

  • You can purchase capsaicin creams without a prescription from a doctor or over-the-counter. The purpose of these topical remedies is to lessen pain.

  • Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory as it contains curcumin. You can also take 500 mg twice a day of premium curcumin pills.

  • Inflammation may be lessened with an anti-inflammatory diet: Red meat, sugar (and sugar-containing foods and beverages), white flour (and foods containing processed flour), fried foods, and foods containing trans fats should be avoided or consumed in moderation. Consume foods high in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids (found in nuts and salmon), and gut-healthy foods like yoghurt and fermented foods.

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