Osteoarthritis Medications

Osteoarthritis medications are drugs used to treat the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, a common form of arthritis caused by the degeneration of joint cartilage. Common medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac; acetaminophen, which has pain-relieving but no anti-inflammatory activity; glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements for joint health; and intra-articular injections of corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, or platelet-rich plasma. In some cases, drugs such as opioids and muscle relaxants may be prescribed. Osteoarthritis medications can provide significant relief of symptoms and improve quality of life.