How medicines fit in

If your GP diagnoses you with arthritis, he or she may recommend a course of medication to help reduce inflammation and lessen your pain.

Types of medicine used
People with arthritis can experience a great deal of pain doing everyday things. So painkillers such as aspirin, paracetamol and ibuprofen are frequently prescribed. Also, these are available without a prescription, but it is important to speak to your GP about the side effects before you start to use them, especially if you think you will be using them regularly. In more severe cases of arthritis, other more powerful analgesics may be prescribed.

Anti-inflammatory medicines can help to reduce any pain, joint inflammation and swelling you are experiencing. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are commonly prescribed and you should discuss these with your GP. When inflammation is particularly severe, steroids may be prescribed by your GP or specialist. Steroids are potent and can sometimes have potential long-term side effects that you should discuss with your GP before prescription.

Disease-specific medicines may be prescribed if the type of arthritis you have involves the immune system and not just joint wear and tear, for example rheumatoid arthritis.

Whatever medicines you take, it's always a good idea to read the information leaflet inside the packet to ensure that you understand what you are taking and any side effects that might affect you.

Things to consider
Taking medicine for arthritis can make a big difference to your quality of life, so it is important that you discuss your medication with your GP. This will help you to be absolutely clear about how you should take it, what to expect and any possible side effects. If you are using non-prescription medicines, such as everyday painkillers, it's important to read the information leaflet in the packet and to discuss these with your GP, especially if you are taking them regularly.

The inflammation and pain of arthritis can come and go – and you may find that there are times when you're feeling good and don't think you need to take your medicine. It's really important to remember that, unless otherwise indicated, your doctor has prescribed the medicine for a reason – and you should not stop taking it without discussing it with him or her.

Finally, if you are pregnant or thinking of starting a family, it's important you let your GP know, as some medicines can be harmful during pregnancy.