What it does / How it works

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used as symptomatic treatment in psoriatic arthritis to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. 

Time frame

Patients can experience some pain relief within 1 or 2 hours of taking an NSAID. It may take several weeks before the full anti-inflammatory effects are seen.

Dosage Form

This medication may be available in tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, suspensions, and suppositories. 

Dose and frequency

NSAIDs are taken up to 3 times a day depending on the type of medication. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for optimal dosing.

Potential Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Some medications can interact with NSAIDs and increase your risk of side effects including bleeding and kidney damage. Always tell your pharmacist or physician about any other prescription or non-prescription medications you are taking. 

How to manage side effects

Taking this medication with food can help minimize side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Some NSAIDs might be available in a formulation with enteric coating, which can help to minimize stomach upset. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe an acid reducer to be taken along with the NSAID to minimize these side effects. 

Cost considerations

Some NSAIDS are available without a prescription. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist when taking over the counter medications. NSAIDs can interact with other medications such as blood thinners and some blood pressure medications.

What it does / How it works

Glucocorticoids work by suppressing inflammation when injected into affected joints. 

Time frame

Joint injections can provide temporary pain relief lasting weeks to months and are generally well tolerated with few side effects. It may take 24 to 48 hours for patients to experience full effects. 

Dosage Form

This medication is available as a vial for injection by a doctor.

Dose and frequency

The dose and frequency of administration may vary depending on what joint is affected and how long treatment benefits last.

Potential Side Effects

Some people may experience brief pain during the injection that resolves quickly. Patients should rest the joint for about 24 to 48 hours after injection.