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Joint Replacement Patient Education PDF Print Course

Medication

Red pills scattered on a surface.

There are a number of medications that can help with the pain of osteoarthritis.

Discuss the risk and benefits of each with your doctor to determine which one is best for you.

Acetaminophen:

  • Tylenol, which is also called Acetaminophen, is generally a safe medication (unless you have liver disease) 
  • Dosing should be limited to 3 grams or 3,000 milligrams per day, which is up to 6 extra strength Tylenol per day or 4 Extended Release Tylenol per day.
  • If you have any questions about the dosing, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Anti-inflammatories:

  • Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Naprosyn, Celebrex, Mobic, and many others.
  • These medications relieve inflammation and pain in an arthritic joint and can be very effective.
  • Can be taken on a regular basis or occasionally only when you need them.
  • Risks can include: stomach upset, bleeding in your stomach or bowels, and kidney or liver injury.
  • Take these medications only as prescribed and do not increase the dose without speaking to your doctor.
  • If you are on these medications for several months, ask your doctor about checking some blood work to monitor your kidney and liver function.
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