Arthritis Pain Relief: Best OTC & Prescription Options Compared

Living with arthritis pain can make daily activities feel difficult. Whether you're dealing with occasional joint discomfort or chronic stiffness, finding the right treatment is essential for maintaining your quality of life. At Central Pharmacy, we understand that our patients need clear, reliable information to make the best decisions for their health.

In this article, we’ll break down the most common over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription options available for arthritis pain relief. Our goal is to help you better understand what’s available, how these medications work, and which options may be right for you.

Understanding Arthritis and Pain Management

Arthritis is a general term for conditions that cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. The two most common types are:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): Caused by wear and tear of the joints.

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation.

Pain relief is a major part of treatment. While arthritis cannot be cured, many people find relief through medications that reduce inflammation and manage pain.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Arthritis Pain Relief

OTC options are often the first step in managing mild to moderate arthritis pain. These are available without a prescription and can be found at Central Pharmacy.

1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol®)

• How it works: Blocks pain signals in the brain.

• Best for: Mild to moderate pain without swelling.

• Considerations: Safe when taken as directed; avoid alcohol and monitor liver health.

2. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

These help reduce both pain and inflammation.

Common OTC NSAIDs include:

• Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®)

• Naproxen (Aleve®)

• Best for: Joint pain with swelling or stiffness.

• Considerations: Take with food to protect the stomach. Long-term use may increase the risk of heart, kidney, or stomach problems.

3. Topical Pain Relievers

These are creams, gels, or patches applied directly to the skin.

Popular options:

• Diclofenac gel (Voltaren Arthritis Pain®)

• Capsaicin cream

• Best for: Localized joint pain, especially in the hands or knees.

• Considerations: Fewer side effects than oral medications. Wash hands after use.

Prescription Medications for Arthritis Pain

When OTC options aren’t enough, your healthcare provider may recommend prescription medications. These are stronger and sometimes used for more advanced or persistent pain.

1. Prescription NSAIDs

• Examples: Celecoxib (Celebrex®), Meloxicam (Mobic®)

• Best for: Moderate to severe pain with inflammation.

• Considerations: Generally used short-term; regular monitoring may be required.

2. Corticosteroids

• Examples: Prednisone (oral), cortisone injections

• How they help: Reduce inflammation quickly.

• Best for: Flare-ups or short-term relief.

• Considerations: Long-term use may cause side effects like weight gain, high blood pressure, and bone loss.

3. Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)

Used mostly for rheumatoid arthritis, these help slow disease progression.

• Examples: Methotrexate, Hydroxychloroquine

• Best for: RA patients under medical supervision.

• Considerations: Require regular lab tests; not for immediate pain relief.

4. Biologic Response Modifiers (Biologics)

• Examples: Humira®, Enbrel®, Remicade®

• How they work: Target specific parts of the immune system.

• Best for: Moderate to severe RA not responding to other treatments.

• Considerations: Given by injection or infusion. Can increase the risk of infections.

Combination Therapy: When More Than One Option Helps

Many patients find that a combination of treatments works best. For example:

• Taking acetaminophen during the day and using a topical gel at night

• Using prescription meds while applying heat therapy or doing physical therapy

Always talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining medications.

Tips for Safe Arthritis Pain Management

• Stick to recommended dosages

• Avoid mixing similar drugs (e.g., multiple NSAIDs)

• Talk to your pharmacist about side effects or interactions

• Stay active with low-impact exercises like swimming or walking

• Use supportive devices, such as braces or shoe inserts, to ease joint pressure

When to Talk to Your Pharmacist or Doctor

If your pain:

• Lasts longer than a few weeks

• Worsens despite OTC treatment

• Comes with new symptoms like swelling or redness

…it may be time to explore prescription options or different treatments.

At Central Pharmacy, we’re here to help you navigate your options and find a plan that works for your lifestyle and health needs.

Final Thoughts

Managing arthritis pain is not one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re just starting with OTC options or considering prescription treatment, the key is finding what brings you comfort and improves your movement.

Stop by Central Pharmacy to speak with one of our friendly pharmacists—we’re always happy to guide you toward the best arthritis relief for your needs.