“What is the best pain reliever for severe arthritis?”

If you have severe arthritis you should be seeing a rheumatologist and receiving a DMARD, which reduces significantly inflammation and therefore pain. Ibuprofen (NSAID) is very good at 800mg 3 times a day. When nothing else helps, unfortunately, narcotics or opiates and opioids have to be used. Long term use is not recommended.

In general terms, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs work best (NSAIDs; Motrin; Advil; Toradol; Duexis; Celebrex; Ketoprofen; etc.). The downside is that all drugs in this class may result in six known side effects:

To the GI System; perforation, obstruction and bleeding; To the Cardiovascular System; Blood clot, heart attack, stroke. They can also cause kidney injury and elevate blood pressure in many cases.

So, use them cautiously and sparingly, and monitor for side effects and complications. Stay well rested; eat a nutritious diet; exercise regularly; keep your weight down; and don't smoke cigarettes. Good Luck!

Kenneth D. Candido, M.D.
Professor of Clinical Anesthesiology-UIC
Clinical Professor of Surgery-UIC
Chairman, Department of Anesthesiology
Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center
836 West Wellington Avenue; Suite 4815
Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: (773) 296-7041
Fax: (773) 296-5088
kdcandido1@gmail.com
www.mypainchicago.com