Millions of medications are prescribed each year, but most (if not all) have underlying side effects that can be extremely dangerous to your health.

All of the below are used to treat (suppress) symptoms of the following:

Rheumatism, Arthritic conditions, Gout, Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, Sprains and Strains

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

• Naproxen
• Indomethacin.

These can relieve your inflammation, pain and stiffness of many types of arthritis, gout, rheumatism, carpel tunnel syndrome…

They work by blocking Cox enzymes and reducing prostaglandins throughout the body.

Side effects include possible kidney failure with prolonged use, as well as fluid retention, potential liver failure, ulcers and prolonged bleeding.

Bone and Joint Inflammation, Bursitis

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs):

• Sulfasalazine
• Methotrexate.

They treat inflamed joints and other tissues. They work by slowing or stopping the immune system from attacking the joints.

They try to stop the cells in your immune system that cause pain and swelling.

Side effects can be quite severe with prolonged use and because of this it is always recommended that practitioners continually monitor the patient with regular blood tests.

Corticosteroids:

• Prednisone.

These may suppress inflammation and slow joint damage. They are strong drugs usually given by injection.

Side effects include potential for cataracts, high blood pressure, sleep problems, bruising, thinning of bones (osteoporosis), weight gain, susceptibility to infections, and more general side effects such as headaches, dizziness, colds and sinus problems, nausea and diarrhea.

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers:

• Etanercept
• Infliximab.

The TNF is a cell protein that acts as an inflammatory agent. TNF blockers block this protein and help to reduce pain, stiffness and swollen joints.

They work by switching off the TNF.

Side effects can include serious infection, nervous system disease, blood problems, heart problems and allergic reactions.

Bone Cancer and Infections

Bisphosphonates:

• Disodium Pamidronate
• Ibandronic Acid
• Zoledronic Acid
• Etidronate
• Alendronate.

These help to protect your bones against some of the effects of cancer and general pain and weakness. They target areas of bone where osteoclast (cells that destroy bone) activity is high.

Side effects include potential falls in calcium levels, changes in kidney function, increased pain in the affected bone, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Fibromyalgia

Tricyclic antidepressants:

• Amitriptyline
• Cyclobenzaprine
• Doxepin
• Nortriptyline.

These help to promote restorative sleep, relax painful muscles and heighten the effects of your natural endorphins (your body’s natural pain-killers).

and

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs):

Often prescribed for people with fibromyalgia.

Side effects of these two drugs can include blurred vision, decreased sexual ability, drowsiness, headaches, weight gain, increased sweating, restlessness, shaking and trembling, fatigue, constipation, dry mouth and dizziness.

More serious side effect potentials include high blood pressure, chest pain, stiff or sore neck, fast or slow heartbeat, increased light sensitivity and nausea.

Benzodiazepines:

• Clonazepam
• Diazepam.

These relax tense, painful muscles to relieve symptoms of restless legs syndrome. They are also good for treating anxiety, but are usually required in fairly high dosages and therefore need monitoring closely by your practitioner.

Side effects include the potential for addiction, drowsiness, memory problems, dizziness and an increased risk of accidents due to concentration loss.

Osteoarthritis – A Special Note

Osteoarthritis is mainly a female condition associated with the Menopause. HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) is often given to women during the menopause to help prevent diseases such as osteoarthritis.

It works by replacing declining sex hormones with estrogen and progestogen to reduce symptoms of the menopause.

Side effects can include nausea, cramps, bloating, weight changes, tender breasts, PMS, fluid retention, jaundice, rashes, changes in sex drive, depression, headaches, dizziness and leg cramps.

More serious side effects could potentially be a slight increased risk of breast cancer and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Other drugs used to help treat/prevent osteoarthritis include Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs), e.g. Raloxifene. These act like the hormone estrogen in the bones and heart. Side effects include hot flashes and an increased risk of blood clots.

 

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