What Are the Side Effects of Arthritis Medication?

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Don’t Have Enough Time, Here are the Key Points

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis Medications: Common drugs include Leflunomide (Arava), Methotrexate (Trexall), Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), and Minocycline (Minocin).
    • Side Effects: Digestive issues, headaches, rashes, nausea, and liver problems.
  • Osteoarthritis Medications: Frequently prescribed drugs are Celecoxib (Celebrex), Piroxicam (Feldene), and Oxaprozin (Ketoprofen ER).
    • Side Effects: Heartburn, nausea, stomach cramps, dizziness, and potential kidney issues.
  • Gout Medications: Probenecid (Probalan), Allopurinol (Zyloprim), Prednisone (Cortisone), and Colchicine are used for treatment.
    • Side Effects: Digestive problems, rashes, liver complications, and higher infection risk.
  • Patient Guidance: Patients are advised to understand these medications’ effects and discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider.

Modern medicine has advanced significantly in recent decades. However, these advances can affect the body, immune system, and gut microbiome. Side effects of arthritis medication are a common example, as many arthritis drugs, while beneficial, may cause unwanted side effects. People should consider these effects carefully before starting any new medication.

Why Knowing the Side Effects of Arthritis Medication Matters

With age, medicine cabinets often fill with various prescriptions, including arthritis medications. Understanding the side effects of each medication can help individuals decide if they should add natural treatments to their arthritis management plan.

Typical Medications Used for Arthritis

The medication prescribed will depend on the severity and type of arthritis being treated. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or osteoarthritis—the three most common types—you are likely using one of these medications.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Medications

Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the joints. Several common medications are prescribed to manage this condition.

1. Arava

Leflunomide is a drug used to suppress the overactive immune system in autoimmune disorders. Possible side effects include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Digestive issues
  • Gut microbiome imbalances
  • Headaches
  • Rash
  • Nausea
  • Liver issues

Side Effect: The impact on liver function is concerning, as the liver plays a key role in supporting a healthy immune system.

2. Trexall

Methotrexate, a chemotherapy agent, also suppresses the immune system. Its side effects may include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Red eyes
  • Hair loss
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Swollen and tender gums

Side Effect: Methotrexate can cause similar side effects to other chemotherapy drugs.

3. Azulfidine

Sulfasalazine, commonly used to help balance the immune system, is often the first drug prescribed. However, about 25% of patients experience side effects, which may include:

  • Migraines
  • Indigestion
  • Nausea
  • Mild allergic reactions
  • Fever
  • Itchiness
  • Metallic taste

4. Minocin

Minocycline, while sometimes used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, is primarily prescribed for other conditions as it targets bacteria. To avoid adverse effects on gut flora, it is recommended to use probiotics alongside this medication. Possible side effects include:

  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Lightheadedness
  • Vertigo
  • Loss of balance
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Osteoarthritis Medications

Osteoarthritis occurs when past injuries lead to painful joint inflammation, or when aging causes joint wear and tear. Several common drugs are prescribed to manage this condition.

1. Celebrex

Celecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), helps reduce inflammation. Possible side effects include:

  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness

This drug has faced potential discontinuation due to its association with an increased risk of heart disease.

2. Feldene

Piroxicam, another NSAID, may cause side effects such as::

  • Bladder and kidney problems
  • Digestive issues
  • Itching or rash
  • Dizziness
  • Migraines
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

3. Ketoprofen ER

This over-the-counter (OTC) drug, also known as Oruvail, Oruvis, and Actron, is an NSAID that helps reduce fever and pain. Possible side effects include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Migraines
  • Constipation

Oxaprozin, an NSAID, promotes propionic acid, which can impact gut bacteria. Side effects include:

  • Digestive problems
  • Heartburn
  • Drowsiness
  • Migraines

These are some of the medications commonly used for osteoarthritis. It is important to read the medication insert to understand your risk factors and discuss any potential side effects with your physician.

Avoid taking medication without fully understanding its effects.

Gout Medications

Gout is primarily managed through lifestyle choices, though some prescriptions may be used as well. Most medications for gout are available over the counter.

1. Probalan

Probenecid is prescribed for patients who experience more than two gout flares per year. It helps increase the excretion of uric acid. Possible side effects include::

  • Tender gums
  • Frequent urination
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting
  • Migraines
  • Loss of appetite

The American Kidney Fund advises against using this medication if you have chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney stones, as it may worsen kidney function in already compromised kidneys.

2. Allopurinol

Also known as Zyloprim, this drug suppresses uric acid and helps prevent kidney stones. However, it may cause side effects, including:

  • Rash
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Decreased liver function
  • Worsening gout

It’s essential to note that while Allopurinol is used for maintenance in gout, taking it during a severe flare can worsen symptoms. Avoid using this drug during acute gout attacks.

3. Prednisone

Also known as Cortisone, this steroid suppresses the immune system to reduce inflammation. However, by lowering immune function, it increases susceptibility to infections, raising the risk of autoimmune diseases.

Long-term usage is not recommended. Other side effects may include:

  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Weight gain
  • Migraines
  • Digestive troubles

4. Colchicine

This commonly recommended over-the-counter (OTC) drug is used to manage gout flares temporarily. It is a milder option, but it can disrupt gut flora, potentially causing digestive issues and poor gut health. It is neither an NSAID nor a steroid.

5. OTC NSAIDs

Other over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs include Ibuprofen, Aleve, Tylenol, and Advil. While they may be less effective, they generally have fewer side effects compared to prescription options.

Conclusion

Only doctors should prescribe long-term arthritis medications. However, discussing potential complications with your doctor is important. Patients with advanced-stage arthritis often need medication.

For those with mild symptoms or early-onset arthritis, natural management methods, especially nutritional changes, may be beneficial.

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