7 Myths and Facts About NSAIDs for RA

Many people think NSAIDs are safe because you can buy them without a prescription — but that's not always the case. Get the facts about NSAIDS for rheumatoid arthritis

Everyday Health—January 2, 2014

Many people who experience rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms like pain and swollen joints rely on over-the-counter pain relief as part of their RA treatment, often reaching for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs.

Whether your go-to NSAID is aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or another drug, it’s important to know that just because it’s easily available doesn’t mean you should take in unlimited amounts — or that it’s the best treatment option for you.

In fact, there are many myths surrounding NSAIDs for RA, and separating fact from fiction is important for your health. Check out these commonly held beliefs and see how much you know about this type of RA treatment.

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5. Myth or Fact: It’s okay to take two different types of NSAIDs at once if one doesn’t provide enough pain relief.

This is not true. “It’s best not to mix NSAIDs because more side effects and drug interactions may occur,” says Hendricks H. Whitman III, MD, attending physician at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.

Read the full story at everydayhealth.com.