Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed.
Prescription Medications
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
- Triamcinolone
- Dexamethasone
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- Celecoxib
- Meloxicam
- Diclofenac
- Sulindac
- Piroxicam
- Ketoprofen
- Diflunisal
- Nabumetone
- Etodolac
- Oxaprozin
- Indomethacin
Prescription Medications
Common names are:
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
- Dexamethasone
- Triamcinolone
Glucocorticoids are given to ease swelling. They should not be used when the body is fighting off an infection. They may be taken by mouth or injected. An injection lowers the risk of problems that may happen when taken by mouth.
Some problems may be:
- Weight gain
- Puffy face
- High blood pressure
- Higher risk of infection
- Bruising
- Osteoporosis
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Diabetes
- Muscle weakness
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
Common names are:
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- Celecoxib
- Meloxicam
- Sulindac
- Diclofenac
- Piroxicam
- Ketoprofen
- Diflunisal
- Nabumetone
- Etodolac
- Oxaprozin
- Indomethacin
The standard nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can work as well as glucocorticoids. These drugs ease swelling by other pathways than the glucocorticoid class of drugs. They are also safer to use in a person who has an infection. But they may have other harmful side effects.
Some problems are:
- Stomach irritation, ulcers, and bleeding
- Allergic reactions
- Kidney damage
- An increased risk of things like heart attacks and strokes
Over-the-Counter Medicines
Common names are:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
These medicines ease swelling. There are small differences between them in things like dosing and side effects.
Some problems are:
- Stomach irritation, ulcers, and bleeding
- Allergic reactions
- Kidney damage
- An increased risk of things like heart attacks and strokes
Acetaminophen can help ease mild aches and pains.
Some people may have an allergic reaction, such as:
- Rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- Problems breathing or swallowing
Liver damage can happen when taking more than advised.
References
Acetaminophen. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/drug-monograph/acetaminophen. Accessed May 6, 2020.
Foot care 101. American Podiatric Medical Association website. Available at: http://www.apma.org/files/FileDownloads/myFEETFootCare101.pdf. Accessed May 5, 2020.
Foot complications. American Diabetes Association website. Available at: https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/complications/foot-complications. Accessed May 5, 2020.
Foot pain and problems. Johns Hopkins Medicine website. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/foot-pain-and-problems. Accessed May 5, 2020.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM
- Review Date: 02/2020
- Update Date: 03/30/2021