Medication

There are a number of medications that can help with the pain of osteoarthritis. Discuss the risk and benefits of each with your doctor to determine which one is best for you.

Acetaminophen:

• Tylenol, which is also called Acetaminophen, is generally a safe medication (unless you have liver disease) 
• Dosing should be limited to 3 grams or 3,000 milligrams per day, which is up to 6 extra strength Tylenol per day or 4 Extended Release Tylenol per day.
• If you have any questions about the dosing, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Anti-inflammatories:

• Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Naprosyn, Celebrex, Mobic, and many others.
• These medications relieve inflammation and pain in an arthritic joint and can be very effective.
• Can be taken on a regular basis or occasionally only when you need them.
• Risks can include: stomach upset, bleeding in your stomach or bowels, and kidney or liver injury.
• Take these medications only as prescribed and do not increase the dose without speaking to your doctor.
• If you are on these medications for several months, ask your doctor about checking some blood work to monitor your kidney and liver function.