Ask the Nurse

I take a non-steroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) daily for arthritis in my hands. I don't like taking so much medication, and I'm wondering if I can cut back and only take medication on days that I have pain.
Freddie, Wicklow

Dear Freddie, If you are using an over-thecounter medication, such as ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen?), you can generally adjust the amount you are taking to match your level of pain. This is especially true if the severity of your pain varies. For example, some people experience a flare of arthritis symptoms after increased physical activity. Using the full recommended dose of a medication for several days should help decrease pain and inflammation. When symptoms improve, you can cut back to one or two tablets every few days. If your symptoms don't recur, you can stop taking the medication and just take it when you need it.

On the other hand, if your arthritis symptoms are more constant, you may find that staying on a set dosage of the medication all the time provides maximum relief of symptoms. If your symptoms are at that level, you should contact your doctor to discuss the treatment options. Any dosage adjustments to prescription arthritis medication you are taking should always be discussed with your doctor.

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