Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to swelling of the joints, pain and stiffness. This condition should not be confused with osteoarthritis, which is due to wear and tear placed on the joints as you age. Therefore, osteoarthritis only occurs in people of advanced age, whereas rheumatoid arthritis can occur in young people, even infants. An autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack healthy cells in the joints is the cause of rheumatoid arthritis. For some reason, the immune system of the body sees this tissue as an invader and attacks it accordingly.

Unfortunately, no cure exists for rheumatoid arthritis, but there are treatments in the form of Canadian drugs that can ease your symptoms and allow you to live a pain-free life. There are several forms available to you today that can alleviate the chronic pain experienced in the joints of people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. There are three categories of Canada drugs, and they are often used in conjunction with one another for the most profound effect. The first of these are NSAIDs. These non-steroidal Canada medications are anti-inflammatory and act to decrease pain by bringing down the swelling. Aspirin, Anacin, Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are common over-the-counter drugs that have been around for many years.

Other NSAIDs also exist that require a prescription. These include Clinoril, Feldene, Flurbiprofen, Relafen and Voltaren. NSAIDs are often used in conjunction with anti-rheumatic Canada drugs, known as DMARDs. DMARDs inhibit the production of cells in the immune system that cause pain and swelling in the joints. If the disease is caught early enough, DMARDs are actually known to reverse rheumatoid arthritis and put it into remission. Examples include Arava, Hydroxchloroquine, Imuran, Methotrexate and Sulfasalazine. Blood work is required to be prescribed with these drugs and side effects will be monitored closely.

Steroids constitute the next category of medicines used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Side effects are mostly cosmetic, such as weight gain and a condition known as "moon face". After use of steroids is completed, these side effects disappear. Many concerned patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis are concerned about the effects Canada prescription drugs have on their bodies in the long-term. Generally, side effects are uncommon due mostly to the fact that frequent lab tests are performed to monitor and control side effects. DMARDs are currently regarded as one of the best long-term treatment options that patients with rheumatoid arthritis have, so ask your doctor about them today.