Numerous anti-inflammatory medicines are available in the stores. Choosing the best anti-inflammatory medicine for joint pain can be confusing sometimes. Given are some of the best anti-inflammatory over-the-counter drugs effective for relieving inflammatory joint pain.
Pain in your joints may occur for various reasons even without having any serious underlying problems. A person may experience inflammation symptoms accompanied by joint pain.
Joint Inflammation Symptoms
Joint inflammation has symptoms like:
- Swelling
- Facing discomfort while moving the joints.
- Excruciating pain in the joints.
- Redness
Apart from these symptoms, a person may feel fatigued throughout the day. There are various reasons for joint inflammation. Some of them include
- Arthritis
- Injury
- Erosion of the bones
- Weak muscles
- Inflammation of the synovitis
- Excess body weight
- Heavy activities such as carrying heavy loads.
Do not ignore any of the inflammation symptoms after an injury.
Also Check: Essential Oils For Joint Pain And Inflammation: Usage & Benefits
Top 3 Over-The-Counter Anti- Inflammatory Medicines
Medicines that can reduce the symptoms of inflammation are known as anti-inflammatory medicines. There are anti-inflammatory drugs for oral consumption and pain-relieving gels and creams for topical application.
Taking adequate rest, surgery, and exercises can help to improve joint inflammation. But to get quick relief you have to rely on medicines. Take a look at the best over-the-counter medicines you can use for joint pain.
💠Ibuprofen
It is an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drug) commonly used to treat pain, arthritis, and headaches. Almost all NSAIDs work by blocking the enzyme known as cyclooxygenase. This OTC pain reliever may interact with other medicines. If you are under medication, better consult your doctor before taking ibuprofen.
Always take the correct dosage and avoid taking the drug for several days. You should limit your dosage to 1200 mg, do not exceed the dose further than that. You are allowed to take the 1200mg dosage only under the strict supervision of your doctor. Ibuprofen can relieve pain and other symptoms of inflammation. Two of the top OTC ibuprofen tablets are Advil and Motrin.
💠Aspirin
Aspirin is an NSAID widely used to treat moderate pain and fever. Aspirin contains an anti-inflammatory compound called salicylate. It works by relieving joint pain and related swelling.
If you are under 18, you are not allowed to take aspirin unless under the supervision of a health care expert. Aspirin in children may cause adverse effects. People with hemophilia, high blood pressure, asthma, and ulcers should avoid taking aspirin.
💠Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is for pain relief and fever. It is an active ingredient found in many over-the-counter drugs and prescription medicines. Acetaminophen is known as paracetamol outside the United States and Japan. How the compound works in the body is still a disputable topic. Some researchers have the opinion that acetaminophen works by blocking the COX enzymes.
If you are under medication for an underlying disease, ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking the medicine. Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking acetaminophen. Tylenol, panadol, and paracetamol are the common OTC acetaminophen drugs.
All three of these NSAIDs have side effects as well. Some common side effects found in these drugs are given below.
Read More: Arthritis Pain Relief: 7 Ways To Manage!
Common Side Effects Of NSAIDs
Even though NSAIDs treat inflammation, they have some side effects too. Some of the general side effects of these drugs include
- Indigestion
- Stomach aches
- Ulcer
- Fatty liver
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Rashes and itching
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure
- Increase the risk of heart failure
- In rare cases, they can cause stroke
It will be better to consult your pharmacist or doctor beforehand If you plan to take any OTC medications for inflammation. Taking OTC drugs at a lower dose may not cause serious side effects. Taking the correct dosage by strictly following the instructions can give great relief.
Conclusion
Ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen are useful over-the-counter medicines for joint inflammation. But they do pose some side effects as well. If you are unsure about taking any of these medicines, you can consult your doctor.
Pregnant ladies, people over the age of 65, and children should avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications without strict medical supervision. If you have asthma, fatty liver, kidney disorders, and past incidents of allergic reactions, then avoid taking anti-inflammatory medicines. Consuming alcohol during medication can lead to a higher risk of liver damage. Drink plenty of water during the course.
