Dr. Calvin Brown:
Dr. Lisa's Interview

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, August 27 and December 3, 2005
Show 222

"What do people need to know bout arthritis medications?" asks Dr. Lisa.

"There is a wide variety of both prescription and over-the-counter medications. There are two categories – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers like acetaminophen. The non-steroidal drugs are also divided into two categories – aspirin-like drugs and cox-2 drugs," says Dr. Calvin Brown, a rheumatologist at Rush University Medical Center.

"Are there potential side effects to any of these medications?" asks Dr. Lisa.

"Non-steroidal drugs can interact with other medications. It's very important for your physician and pharmacist to know all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you're taking. For arthritis pain, there is also therapy, exercise and diet. Knowledge is power when treating arthritis. No one should have to live with pain," Dr. Brown says.