Ques/7 ph | Nursing homework help
Acetaminophen is commonly recommended for the treatment of osteoarthritis due to its antipyretic and analgesic properties, which help in alleviating pain and fever, common symptoms associated with the condition. Banks et al. (2019) note that the mechanism by which acetaminophen provides its therapeutic effects is not well understood. However, it is suggested that it shares properties with Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), which inhibit the cyclooxygenase pathways leading to the production of prostaglandins that cause inflammation and swelling, resulting in pain relief. The drug is also associated with central actions that raise the pain threshold, thus gradually reducing pain. As such, acetaminophen plays a vital role in managing osteoarthritis by providing pain relief and improving the quality of life of affected patients.
Celecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used in the management of osteoarthritis, among other conditions. Cheng et al. (2020) report that the drug can alleviate pain and inflammation by affecting the production of substances that cause these effects. However, the use of celecoxib has been associated with side effects, with some being severe or life-threatening, such as cardiovascular health complications. Health care providers should, therefore, assess patients for a history of heart attacks or chronic conditions, and avoid concurrent use of the drug with other medications that could cause fatal drug interactions. Additionally, patients should be informed of the potential risks associated with celecoxib use and advised on necessary precautions to avoid severe side effects.
Ibuprofen and celecoxib share similar properties and are prescribed for the management of acute pain caused by degenerative joint ailments. Cheng et al. (2020) report that both drugs affect the production of substances responsible for pain and inflammation. However, their use has been associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular health conditions and gastrointestinal complications, among other side effects. Ibuprofen is preferred for knee and joint pains and is relatively affordable and accessible over-the-counter, while celecoxib remains a prescription-only drug that is comparatively safer on the patient’s kidney. As such, the use of either drug in osteoarthritis management should be carefully considered, and patients should be adequately informed of potential risks and side effects.
References:
Banks, S., Wu, P., & Gonzalez, R. (2019). Acetaminophen in osteoarthritis. Current rheumatology reports, 21(6), 1-8.
Cheng, J., Wei, F., & Wei, X. (2020). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Medicine, 99(20), e20043.
Kielly, J., Yuan, Y., & Barrett, J. A. (2017). Cardiovascular and gastrointestinal safety of celecoxib in elderly osteoarthritis patients. Therapeutic advances in musculoskeletal disease, 9(5), 111-121.