Advil Regimen for Arthritis

2010-11-28

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According to the Mayo Clinic, there is no cure for arthritis. There are two main types of arthritis including rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid is an auto-immune disease characterized by inflammation of the joints and connective tissue. It creates destruction to the joints. Osteoarthritis damages the cartilage and surrounding tissue. Both can be very debilitating and cause severe pain. Drugs are used in the treatment of arthritic symptoms and to suppress the body’s immune system.

An Advil regimen for arthritis reduces inflammation and treats mild to moderate pain. The drug is part of the NSAIDs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. NSAIDs can be purchased over the counter and in higher doses, through prescription

Dose

Exercise and physical therapy can include an Advil regimen for arthritis. It may also include the use of other anti-rheumatic and immunosuppressive drugs. The usual Advil dosage for adults and teens is 1200 mg up to 3200 mg per day. For children the dose is based on body weight. The usual dosage limit per day is 40 mg per kilogram or 2.2 lbs. The overall dose is divided into three or four doses. Medication regimens are determined by a physician.

Precautions

Animal studies indicate some adverse affects on the fetus but no human study has concluded such results except in the third trimester according to the Mayo Clinic. The affects of the drug outweigh the risks in life threatening situations.

Discuss any drug interactions with your doctor. There are numerous drugs that can interact with Advil including Aspirin. The nature of both drugs can result in excessive bleeding.

Medical conditions affected by the use of Advil include anemia, edema, liver and kidney disease, high blood pressure and stomach ulcers.

Most drugs can produce an allergic reaction. Signs that can indicate serious problems are; extreme trouble breathing, gasping for breath, wheezing, fainting, fast and irregular heartbeat, rash or hives and swelling around the eyes. Seek immediate attention if any of these symptoms occur.

Side Effects

The most common side effects from using Advil are digestive symptoms such as bloating, heartburn, gas, nausea, and diarrhea. Side effects can also include breathing difficulties, and unusual bleeding. Another common symptom is ringing in the ears. Contact your doctor if the symptoms are too uncomfortable.

It is important to inform any health care worker in case of emergency that you are taking Advil for arthritis. The use of Advil can affect treatment amidst pre-surgery and injuries.

Summary

An Advil regimen for arthritis can relieve the swelling and pain that plagues sufferers. It can help arthritis patients function during simple tasks and restore activity. There is no cure for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis but the debilitating symptoms are treatable. If you suffer from arthritis, speak to your doctor about a treatment plan that will benefit you.