Additionally, the time required for a new medicine or an increased dose of an old medicine to effect improvement may be weeks or even months before further change is considered. This is why follow-ups to check for adverse effects of a drug are vital. Often a blood count, urinalysis, or a liver function test is required at intervals of days, weeks, or months depending on the drug and its effect on you, so get these done if your doctor orders them. Inform yourself of the action of a drug. A few drugs are strictly analgesic, that is, they help pain only.
Medicines containing narcotics are analgesics also.
Finally, you should inquire of your doctor or nurse when you begin a new medicine about any drug interactions with other medicines you may be taking. Ask also if there are any special instructions relating to the absorption of the medicine. The usual adverse reactions to drugs are fairly straightforward and can be monitored to ensure safety. Anemia, along with a loss of white blood cells or platelets, can occur with almost any arthritis drug. The kidney or the liver can also be injured.