I was wondering what I could do while I am in the process of being diagnosed, PCP thinks either RA or Reactive Arthritis and we're waiting on more labs to come back. Dr prescribed Relafen, and told me to take Tylenol Arthritis. Neither of these really help. Is there anything else that might work better? I can not tolerate Alieve because of reflux/heart burn side effect (even with an antacid). I am miserable. Is there anything I could ask the Dr to prescribe?
There are prescription NSAIDs (like Aleve), and COX2 inhibitors (Celebrex), which are both anti-inflammatory. For pain only, there are narcotics (tramadol, darvocet, hydrocodone, etc). Good luck and hope you feel better.
Sorry, I wasn't very clear. Aleve is obviously non-prescription, but there are prescription drugs that do the same thing, like Mobic.
I really don't want pain meds, although the Dr did say she would give me one if I needed it. I was just hoping there was something I could do short term until I get a DX and go on "real" meds.
[QUOTE=jennmommi]I really don't want pain meds, although the Dr did say she would give me one if I needed it. I was just hoping there was something I could do short term until I get a DX and go on "real" meds.
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If I'm having a flare and need an NSAID, I take naproxen (generic Aleve). I take as many as 5 tablets (220mg) per day, in divided doses. If you want/need to take that many tablets per day, or take it for more than a week or two, definitely talk to your doctor first. You also might want to consider using an OTC antacid to protect your stomach, such as Tagamet or Pepcid (both available as cheap generics).
Fish oil has greatly decreased my pain and inflammation - I take 10 capsules per day, 1000mg each. This gives about 3,000mg of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. As with anything else, if you're going to take a high dose like this, be sure to run it by your doctor first! ) I think prevacid may be otc now. I no longer take any of these drugs, currently on enbrel and mtx.