As a healthcare professional with expertise in pharmacology, I can provide you with information on pain management for arthritis. It's important to note that the best painkiller for arthritis pain can vary from person to person, depending on the type of arthritis, the severity of the pain, and the individual's overall health and medical history.

For mild to moderate arthritis pain, over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are often the first line of treatment. These include:

1. **Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)**: These can help reduce both pain and inflammation. Common NSAIDs include ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (e.g., Aleve).


2. Acetaminophen: Also known as paracetamol, this is another OTC option and is often recommended for milder pain. It's available under various brand names, including Tylenol.

For more severe pain or when OTC medications are not effective, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications, such as:


1. Cox-2 inhibitors: A specific type of NSAID that may have fewer gastrointestinal side effects.


2. Opioids: For severe pain, a doctor might prescribe opioid painkillers, although these are generally used as a last resort due to the risk of dependency and side effects.


3. Topical pain relievers: Creams or gels that can be applied directly to the skin over the painful area.


4. Steroids: Injectable or oral steroids may be used for short-term pain relief during flare-ups.

5. **Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)**: For inflammatory types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis, DMARDs can help slow the progression of the disease and reduce pain.

It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation. Self-medicating without professional guidance can lead to inappropriate use and potential health risks.

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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs called NSAIDs help relieve joint swelling, stiffness, and pain -- and are among the most commonly used painkillers for people with any type of arthritis. You may know them by the names such as ibuprofen, naproxen, Motrin, or Advil.read more >>