There are many prescription arthritis medications which doctors can prescribe to treat rheumatoid arthritis. While none of these arthritis medications cure arthritis, they can bring pain relief, relieve symptoms, and even slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve inflammation and pain. These drugs can be used as an arthritis medicine and can be purchased over the counter and in prescription form. (Most everyone is familiar with aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.) The only down side to these arthritis medications is they can lead to stomach problems, such as bleeding and indigestion. They can also raise an individual’s blood pressure and make them susceptible to fluid retention.

COX-2 inhibitors are a class 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 called cyclooxygenase which is involved in inflammation. However, fluid retention and high blood pressure are side effects of COX-2 inhibitors. Reports are also coming in that those who take this class of drug may be at an increased risk of having a stroke or heart attack.

Corticosteroids are arthritis medications which can reduce pain and inflammation. They can also slow down the damage to joints brought on by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, many patients who take corticosteroids report they feel remarkably better. However, after a period of time the effectiveness of corticosteroids may wear off. There is also the chance of acquiring serious side effects such as weight gain, diabetes, and thinning of the bones after prolonged use of corticosteroids.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Immunosuppressants can be given as an arthritis medication to help control the immune system. The immune system in rheumatoid arthritis patients  is not balanced and it is out of control. TNF blockers are sometimes given in conjunction 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 early with rheumatoid arthritis can be given arthritis medications known as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. These drugs slow down the development of rheumatoid arthritis. Thus, if the arthritis is caught early, much damage to the joints can be avoided.

It is important to see a doctor at the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis. While modern medicine has been unable to find a cure for arthritis, they are making strides in pain relief and slowing down the progression rate of rheumatoid arthritis.