Learning about arthritis medications can help you feel more informed.

Depending on the type of arthritis you live with and the arthritis symptoms you have, you may be prescribed a number of very different drugs. It can be difficult to keep track of which medicine does what, but having a working knowledge of the types of arthritis medications you may encounter can help you ask the right questions of your doctor and better manage your health condition. Here is a quick review of a few types of medications you may be prescribed for arthritis:

Analgesics

Analgesics, or painkillers, are a very common arthritis medication. In fact, this is one class of drug most people with arthritis of any kind will have experience with. From acetaminophen (sold as Tylenol and other over-the-counter brands) to less common and stronger medications, each of the drugs in this class is used to reduce arthritis pain. Finding an analgesic that works for you and has side effects you can tolerate can be difficult. If you have a high level of arthritis pain that makes it difficult to function, you're likely to be looking for a stronger drug that lets you live your daily life as normally as possible. However, there can be many side effects. Talk to your doctor about the right balance between pain management and side effects if this is a concern for you.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs reduce fever and pain, among other uses. Most people are familiar with them in the form of ibuprofen, a common over-the-counter drug sold under a variety of name brands including Advil. In types of arthritis that involve inflammatory processes, such as rheumatoid arthritis, drugs of this kind can help reduce inflammation and pain. There are many drugs in this class, and they have varying degrees of strength. Your doctor will be able to discuss your options with you if NSAIDs are a part of your treatment plan.

Biologics

If you live with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis or psoriatic arthritis, you may be prescribed biologic drugs, or TNF-a inhibitors. These medications target the immune system and the way it is attacking the joints of the body. They must be delivered through intravenous infusion - an IV line - or through injection. Often, they are more expensive options than other first-line drugs like disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, which also affect the immune system and are often part of aggressive arthritis treatment.

For more on arthritis medications:

10 Tips to Avoid Deadly Medication Mistakes
Skipping Medication Is Never a Good Idea for Arthritis
How to Get Discounts on Medical Care and Medications