Pain Relief
Paracetamol (safe, mild), NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen — stronger but side effects), opioids (strong, for severe pain). Start lowest effective dose.
DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs)
Used for autoimmune arthritis (RA, PsA). Slow disease progression. Examples: methotrexate, sulfasalazine, leflunomide. Need regular blood tests.
Biologics
Newer medications targeting immune system. TNF inhibitors, IL-6 inhibitors, JAK inhibitors. Very effective but expensive. Given by injection or infusion.
Steroid Injections
Anti-inflammatory injections into joints. Provide short-term relief. Can't be used too frequently (risks joint damage).