Corticosteroids, powerful anti-inflammatory hormones made naturally in the body or man made for use as drugs. Corticosteroids are typically injected into affected joints to relieve pain temporarily. This is a short-term measure, not recommended for more than two or three times per year. Hyaluronic acid, a new medicine for joint injection, used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. This substance is a normal component of the joint, involved in joint lubrication and nutrition.
Many patients experience pain relief after a series of three to five injections.
Most medicines used to treat osteoarthritis have side effects. So it is important for patients to learn about the drugs they are taking. Even nonprescription drugs should be checked. Several groups of patients are at high risk for side effects. Patients may be able to help reduce side effects by taking some drugs with food.