Do No Harm?All doctors say it when they take the Hippocratic oath. I will "do no harm" should also be the policy of drug manufacturers. While many imply that it is, harm is exactly what happens when new drugs don't perform the way the creators claim? One of the latest arthritis "wonder" drugs was Vioxx. Yet, it was recalled by Merck for connections to stroke and potential heart problems. Tragic, isn't it. We put our trust into companies to create relief from the agony of arthritis and the trade off could well be a heart attack for our faith. Unfortunately, this is why it is vital to know the side effects of any arthritis drug that you have in your medicine cabinet. This includes those you have purchased in the pharmacy aisle of your local grocery store.
Acetaminophen: We use it for headaches, muscle pain, and even arthritis. You may know it as one name brand-Tylenol. But, do we really consider the potential side effects of something that has been on the market for decades? If you have arthritis, or any other chronic condition, you should. Liver damage is a potential side effect providing you are a heavy drinker. If not, you still run the risk of blood problems, so you should avoid this as an arthritis drug if you are already taking blood-thinning medications. You could also develop an allergic reaction such as trouble breathing or the appearance of hives when taking acetaminophen. NSAIDS: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS, are one of the latest drugs to hit the market. The most common name brand for this type of drug is Aleve, and it is truly remarkable when it comes to relieving arthritis pain without the side effects that often accompany steroids. Unfortunately, NSAIDS are not without complications. If you are one of the millions who suffer from ulcers or other gastrointestinal problems, avoid NSAIDS as an arthritis drug, because they can exacerbate this problem. In fact, when used for a prolonged time frame, NSAIDS can cause gastrointestinal and other problems in patients who had no previous history of issues like ulcers. Topical Pain-Relieving Creams: Creams like muscle rubs and aspirin-derived topical medications can provide quick temporary relief from the joint ache caused by arthritis. As an arthritis drug, these pain relievers are often wonderful; however, like acetaminophens and NSAIDS, they are not without side effects. Luckily, the side effects are usually limited to a rash resulting from a reaction to the chemical makeup of the product. Yes, over-the-counter arthritis drugs are remarkably helpful in relieving the agony so many people suffer. However, even these trusted remedies are not without potential complications. Fortunately, because they have been on the market for so many years, the side-effects are well-known and available for any sufferer willing to take a moment to look it up. If you suffer from arthritis, don't wait until you are diagnosed with a preventable ulcer to find out the risks-act now and look it up! |