Key Takeaways

NSAIDs, topical creams, and acetaminophen are common over-the-counter options for managing arthritis symptoms, but use caution to ensure they are right for you.
NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin help reduce pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen only helps with pain but may be safer if NSAIDs aren’t an option for you.
Topical creams with menthol, capsaicin, and salicylate may provide immediate relief when applied to painful areas, though they may cause skin irritation for some.

Overview

Arthritis is an umbrella term for conditions that involve inflammation and pain in one or more joints. You can manage symptoms with physical therapy, prescription medications, and OTC drugs.

You may sometimes need surgery when arthritis pain makes it difficult carry out and enjoy day-to-day activities.

Common and effective arthritis medications

Glass of water threee quarters full with three pill laying beside the glass which could be over the counter arthritis medications — Photography by Marc Tran/Getty Images

Among the most effective medications for arthritis are:

opioids
steroids
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Both opioids and steroids require a prescription from a medical professional. NSAIDs are available by prescription or OTC.

You can find over-the-counter medications at grocery stores, pharmacies, and sometimes, online. Even if you don’t need a prescription for an OTC drug, discussing its use with your healthcare team is highly advisable. Some may not be indicated for your particular case or could interact with prescription medications.

The following OTC medications for arthritis are the most common and effective options.

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

In general, NSAIDs help reduce pain and inflammation in the body. This is why they may help you manage the symptoms of arthritis.

Prescription NSAIDs are more potent than OTC options but may carry more risks. This doesn’t mean that OTC drugs are entirely safe.

In general, NSAIDs work by blocking the production of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is involved in the production of prostaglandins. These are chemicals that contribute to inflammation and pain.

The most common over-the-counter NSAIDs are:

ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
naproxen (Aleve)
aspirin

These medications are often taken orally and can effectively reduce mild to moderate pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.

As with other medications, you may experience some side effects with NSAIDs. The most common side effects include:

stomach irritation
indigestion
diarrhea
allergies
lightheadedness

More serious and rare side effects of NSAIDs may involve:

gastrointestinal bleeding
increased chances of experiencing a heart attack or stroke
kidney damage
liver damage

You may want to discuss with your healthcare team whether OTC NSAIDs are the best option for your arthritis, particularly if you:

are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
have acid reflux or stomach ulcers
have experienced cardiovascular problems
have liver or kidney disease
take any blood-thinning medications
live with shingles
have gastrointestinal health challenges

2. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Acetaminophen may help you manage pain related to arthritis.

Unlike NSAIDs, acetaminophen does not reduce arthritis inflammation. But it can help you relieve mild to moderate arthritis pain.

Acetaminophen may be safer for those with a higher chance of experiencing severe side effects from NSAIDs. Acetaminophen typically doesn’t cause stomach irritation or gastrointestinal problems.

You may want to consider discussing the recommended dose and cadence with your medical professional. This is because acetaminophen may lead to liver damage when taken too frequently, at higher doses, or for prolonged times.

3. Topical creams

Arthritis pain relief creams sold over the counter may be effective in helping you manage symptoms. These OTC topical creams and ointments are absorbed through the skin, blocking nerve pain signals and changing blood flow. This may lead to reduced inflammation and pain.

OTC arthritis creams and gels typically contain:

menthol
capsaicin
salicylate

You can massage these ointments directly to the painful areas and may experience immediate relief.

Although safer than oral medications, OTC arthritis pain creams are not without side effects.

You might experience skin irritation and allergic reactions. You should patch-test a small area before applying the ointments to the indicated body parts.

Some people have also experienced serious skin burns after using some OTC topical pain relievers.

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Are some OTC options better than others?

The effectiveness of OTC arthritis medications depends on your condition. Some people may find arthritis relief from OTC NSAIDs, while others may find that acetaminophen or topical creams work better.

Consider discussing the best options for your specific needs with your healthcare professional. Sometimes, a combination of over-the-counter and prescription medications may be necessary to achieve arthritis pain relief.

Prescription treatment for arthritis

Depending on your type of arthritis and level of pain and inflammation, your healthcare team may recommend OTC medications in combination with prescription drugs and therapies.

Some treatments for arthritis involve:

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

These drugs slow down or stop the progression of rheumatoid arthritis by suppressing your immune system’s response.

Some DMARDs include:

methotrexate (Trexall)
sulfasalazine (Azulfidine)
hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)

As they suppress your immune system, these medications may increase your chance of developing some viral and bacterial conditions.

Biologics

These are a newer class of drugs that target specific immune system components, which can help reduce inflammation and slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

Healthcare professionals usually prescribe biologics for people who have not responded to other arthritis treatments or have severe symptoms.

Examples of biologics include:

adalimumab
etanercept
infliximab

Corticosteroids

Heathcare professionals typically prescribe these medications to reduce joint inflammation and pain. They can have significant side effects if taken long term. Some of these include weight gain, high blood pressure, and increased chance of infection.

Physical therapy

A physical therapist may help you create a customized exercise plan to strengthen muscles around your affected joints. This may help reduce the strain on the joint and relieve pain and stiffness.

Joint replacement surgery

In some cases, arthritis may damage joints beyond repair. Joint replacement surgery may be an option if this happens.

This surgery involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial joint.

Summary

The most common over-the-counter medications for arthritis include acetaminophen, NSAIDs, creams, and ointments. Although safer than some prescription medications, OTC arthritis options may also cause side effects.

Consider talking with your healthcare team before starting any new medication for arthritis, even if you can get it over the counter. They can help you determine which option is best for your specific situation and provide guidance on how to use it safely and effectively.

Download the free Optum Perks Discount Card to save up to 80% on some prescription medications.