When considering arthritis pain medications, you will note the wide variety of options available. Although there are 
many arthritis pain medications that do not require a prescription from a physician, it is best to seek professional medical advice. Consulting a doctor not only gives you more reliable information, but expands your arthritis pain medication options by including those that are only available as prescribed by a doctor. A doctor can also give you information as to the safety implications of medications specific to your condition and history.
There are many arthritis pain medications available on the market. It is important to understand the major differences between these medications and their effects on certain symptoms in order to ascertain the appropriateness to your individual situation. Arthritis pain medications fall into 5 major groups: NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), DMARDs (disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs), BRMs (biological response modifiers), corticosteroids and analgesics.
NSAIDs
NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are effective pain relievers as well as functioning to lower fever and decrease inflammation in arthritic joints. For people who do not tolerate steroids, this is usually prescribed as an alternative. These drugs are often mixed with aspirin or ibuprofen to make arthritis pain medications.
DMARDs
DMARDS (disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) are usually prescribed for patients who have had limited or no success with other arthritis pain medications. Especially effective in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, DMARDs bolster the body’s immune system and exert some control over it to stop it from attacking the tissues that line the joints.
BRMs
Biological response modifiers (BRMs) operate as the name suggests: they alter the body’s response to the causes of arthritic pain. The primary ingredients mirror naturally occurring chemicals in the body, but have been created in a lab. The primary response they attempt to modify is the response to the condition that produces pain.
Corticosteroids
Created in laboratories, corticosteroids are made of steroidal hormones. This arthritis pain medication effectively stops inflammation in the arthritic joints. Strictly a prescription medication, the effects of this drug must be closely monitored by a doctor. Many patients complain of excessive weight gain so it may not be advised to take this medication over long periods of time. Although superior in pain relief, the possible weight gain can cause worse problems with the disease.
Arthritis pain medications are prescribed by a doctor as a part of an arthritis treatment plan. Although medication tends to be the most effective pain reliever, other components are just as important. Medication alone cannot increase mobility of maintain joint function. As the pain subsides, many patients feel that arthritis is under control. It is important to implement the other components of the treatment plan in order to stop arthritis from becoming debilitating.
