Many arthritis drugs are used to decrease joint swelling. Swelling and warmth are the result of the body mounting an immune response (fighting off foreign things). In the case of arthritis, the immune system is confused, and begins to fight its own tissues within the joints. This results in pain, swelling, heat, redness, and sometimes stiffness of the joint. Aspirin is a drug used to decrease these symptoms.

Small amounts of aspirin help relieve headaches, mild pain, and fever. Higher doses taken around the clock relieve some of the pain, heat, redness, and swelling of arthritis.

Nonbrand name aspirin is cheaper and works just as well as brand name aspirin. Before you buy large quantities of aspirin, see if you have side effects from the aspirin chosen or prescribed. Be sure not to take large doses of aspirin unless under a doctor's care.

Aspirin may be sold over the counter, but its use should not be taken lightly. For some people it may cause side effects. It can irritate the lining of the stomach, and may cause ulcers. People who bleed easily should not take aspirin, because it thins the blood and may cause bruising of the skin. By checking blood levels from time to time, a doctor can determine the best dose of aspirin.

Not all aspirin is the same. A variety of forms of aspirin have been developed to help avoid stomach side effects. These include liquid forms, buffered tablets, enteric coated tablets, and timed-release tablets. Differences in the way aspirin tablets dissolve may cause some brands to irritate the stomach more than others. In addition, different brands of aspirin contain different doses. Some aspirin is called "arthritis strength" or "extra strength" because each tablet contains a higher than average dose. Call your doctor if you do not think your dosage of aspirin is helping. Do not change your dose before speaking with your doctor.

Do not take aspirin with alcohol, coffee, tea, or other drinks with caffeine. Stomach problems could be made worse. To avoid bleeding during or after surgery, do not take aspirin 10 to 14 days before surgery. Finally, always take aspirin with a full meal and plenty of liquids. To learn more about arthritis, call the Arthritis Foundation at (800) 283-7800.

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