Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen may have some adverse effects, whether taken in pill form or rubbed on the skin as a cream. Adverse effects could include gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers. People with osteoarthritis often take NSAIDs continuously. If so, the doctor needs to know. Over time, continuous NSAID use could harm the liver if it's not given a rest period.
Steroid injections into aggravated joints are common if regular NSAID use isn't working to combat swelling and pain. But a major adverse effect of steroid injections is a burning sensation that may last for days.
Other treatments include glucosamine/chondroiton, available as an over-the-counter dietary supplement. There is very little evidence that this compound is effective, and it may cause adverse effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and headache.
Another treatment is injection of hyaluronan directly into the joint to help cushion it. Adverse effects of this osteoarthritis treatment are minor.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen,
aspirin, or naproxen may have some adverse effects, whether taken
in pill form or rubbed on the skin as a cream. Adverse effects
could include gastrointestinal bleeding or...
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Donna Hill Howes answered:Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen may have some adverse effects, whether taken in pill form or rubbed on the skin as a cream. Adverse effects could include gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers. People with osteoarthritis often take NSAIDs continuously. If so, the doctor needs to know. Over time, continuous NSAID use could harm the liver if it's not given a rest period.
