What medications can you take for arthritis?

My mother was recently told she has early arthritis, and we are quite confused. The doctor suggested some calcium supplements and a mild painkiller, but we are scared of side effects. Does anyone know if taking these daily is safe for the kidneys in the long run?

In arthritis, we usually see doctors prescribing NSAIDs like naproxen or etoricoxib for pain relief, along with glucosamine supplements. For rheumatoid arthritis, they might use DMARDs. Just a tip: never abuse painkillers daily without a doctor's supervision, as they can cause stomach ulcers.

I was just reading up on this because my dad has started complaining of joint pain in his fingers. I found that doctors use everything from simple paracetamol and pain gels to advanced therapies depending on how bad the joint wear-and-tear is. Guess it's best to take him for a proper clinic visit.

There are hundreds of fake oil advertisements and 'magic pills' online claiming to cure arthritis completely, but please don't fall for them. Arthritis treatment depends on whether it is osteoarthritis or rheumatoid, and only a qualified orthopedist can prescribe the correct medication after seeing your X-rays.

My grandmother has bad osteoarthritis and her doctor prescribed some daily joint supplements and an ointment to rub on her knees when it hurts too much. It's so hard to see them in pain! Please get a rheumatologist to check them properly so they get the right kind of relief.