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What can be used for widespread joint pain when you can’t take NSAIDs or prednisone?

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
NC
May 21
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Answer Summary

Members shared a wide range of strategies for managing widespread joint pain when NSAIDs and prednisone are not an option. Several members... Read more

Members shared a wide range of strategies for managing widespread joint pain when NSAIDs and prednisone are not an option. Several members found relief through prescription medications like Plaquenil, methotrexate, and low-dose naltrexone, while others turned to CBD gummies, turmeric, ginger, and Type 2 collagen supplements. A recurring theme was that everyone's pain is different, so finding what works takes patience, and practical tips like ice massages using a paper cup were warmly shared alongside encouragement.

A MyLupusTeam Member

I just normally take just prednisone & tylenol my pain is wide spread through out my body tonight, i couldn't even sit through dinner just left & a went to bed when my pain is resl & i cant get it under control like tonight my husband bought me CBD gymmies for my birthday and i tske then once in a while when my pain is bad like tonight. Tonight is probably a good night to take it. I wenr on line thinkjng i csn get my mind off it. But its not working so i might take gummy.

May 21
A MyLupusTeam Member

I use cold/ice water joint soaks and occasional Tylenol. Cold water is a great anti-inflammatory. Gentle exercise and keeping the muscles and joints moving help, too.

May 22 (edited)
MyLupusTeam

Managing widespread joint pain without NSAIDs or prednisone can feel tricky, but there are several options worth exploring with a rheumatologist.

Medications that may help:

- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) — can help with pain relief, though it doesn't reduce inflammation the way NSAIDs do
- Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) — an Show Full Answer

Managing widespread joint pain without NSAIDs or prednisone can feel tricky, but there are several options worth exploring with a rheumatologist.

Medications that may help:

- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) — can help with pain relief, though it doesn't reduce inflammation the way NSAIDs do
- Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) — an antimalarial that can effectively treat lupus-related joint pain, though it takes a few months to kick in
- Immunosuppressants — such as methotrexate, azathioprine (Imuran), mycophenolate (CellCept), or cyclosporine
- Biologics — like belimumab (Benlysta) or rituximab (Rituxan)
- Amitriptyline or other antidepressants — can help change how pain is perceived Non-medication approaches can also make a real difference:

- Physical therapy — helps strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce joint burden
- Low-impact exercise — swimming, tai chi, or gentle stretching when not in a flare
- Hot and cold therapy — heat loosens stiff joints; cold helps calm swelling
- Supportive aids — braces, canes, or orthotics to reduce pressure on painful joints
- Anti-inflammatory diet — foods rich in omega-3s like fish and nuts may help lower inflammation

Always check with your rheumatologist before starting or changing anything, especially since some options like acetaminophen may carry risks depending on how lupus is affecting your body.

May 21
A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes, LDN is prescription. You will have to shop for a compounding pharmacy that is reasonable, and often your insurance won't pay for it. A company that mass produced LDN would clean up. Some compound their own in distilled water, but getting consistent dosages and not contaminating the liquid preparation is then the issue.

May 21
A MyLupusTeam Member

Tumeric for me, the doctor has given me several prednisone tapers and now I use 10mg of prednisone daily. I do benlysta weekly injectables currently until insurance approved the infusions. But lupus is so complex and not under control currently.

May 21

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