Arthritis medications: what works and what to watch for

Arthritis isn’t one thing, and neither is its treatment. Some people manage with a cream and exercise. Others need disease-modifying drugs or biologics. This page helps you spot the main options, understand common risks, and make safer choices—so you get relief without surprises.

Main types of arthritis medicines

NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) are often the first step. They ease pain and reduce inflammation but can upset the stomach and raise bleeding risk if you take blood thinners. Topical NSAIDs are a good option for localized pain in knees or hands.

Acetaminophen can help with mild pain but won’t lower inflammation. Opioids are rarely recommended for long-term arthritis because of dependence and side effects.

For inflammatory arthritis (like rheumatoid arthritis), doctors use DMARDs—disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs—such as methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, and leflunomide. These slow joint damage but need regular blood tests for liver, kidney, and blood counts.

Biologics and targeted small molecules (TNF inhibitors, IL-6 blockers, JAK inhibitors) are for people who don’t respond to DMARDs. They’re often very effective, but they increase infection risk and require screening (TB test, hepatitis panel) before starting.

Oral steroids work fast for flares but aren’t safe long-term at high doses. Doctors usually use them briefly while other drugs take effect.

How to stay safe on arthritis meds

Get baseline labs before starting DMARDs or biologics and keep scheduled monitoring. A simple blood test can spot liver problems or dropped blood counts early. If you drink alcohol, tell your doctor—some meds like methotrexate raise liver risk when mixed with alcohol.

Know common drug interactions: NSAIDs plus blood thinners raises bleed risk; certain antibiotics can raise methotrexate levels; some herbal supplements affect warfarin and other meds. Always tell your provider about every pill and supplement you take.

Vaccines matter. Live vaccines are usually not allowed on biologics; get up-to-date on flu and pneumococcal shots before treatment when possible.

Thinking of buying meds online? Use licensed pharmacies that require a prescription. Avoid sites that sell controlled drugs without a prescription or offer prices that look too good to be true. If you’re unsure, call your pharmacist or check pharmacy licensure.

Track side effects in a simple notebook or app: date, symptom, dose. That helps your clinician spot patterns and adjust treatment fast. If you develop fever, new cough, or signs of infection while on immunosuppressants, call your provider right away.

Medication is one part of care. Physical therapy, weight loss if needed, joint protection, and exercise often add more benefit than another pill. Talk openly with your doctor about goals: symptom relief, slowing joint damage, or both. That makes choosing the right medicine much easier.