Arthritis
About 1 in 4 American adults lives with some form of arthritis. The most common is osteoarthritis, in which the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears down, causing pain and stiffness — most often in the knees, hips, and hands. Arthritis pain tends to build slowly, but it responds well to a combination of movement, weight management, and the right medication.
Not all arthritis is the same
Osteoarthritis is mechanical wear that develops over years. Rheumatoid arthritis, by contrast, is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints; it usually affects both sides of the body symmetrically and requires specialized treatment. Getting the right diagnosis matters, because the treatments are different.
How it is treated
Regular low-impact movement and maintaining a healthy weight are the foundation — every extra pound adds pressure to knees and hips. For pain and inflammation, doctors commonly prescribe NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), available as daily oral tablets or as a topical gel applied directly to the joint, which delivers relief with less exposure for the rest of the body. The choice depends on which joints are affected and on your stomach, heart, and kidney history — your doctor weighs those factors.
Living with arthritis
Pacing activities, applying heat for stiffness and cold for flare-ups, and taking anti-inflammatories exactly as directed — with food, at the prescribed dose — make daily life noticeably easier. A pharmacist can review how to take your medication safely and answer questions in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
Available medications
Meloxicam
Generic for Mobic
A once-daily oral NSAID for arthritis pain and inflammation.
Celecoxib
Generic for Celebrex
A COX-2 selective NSAID, often chosen when stomach tolerance is a concern.
Diclofenac
Generic for Voltaren
An anti-inflammatory available as oral tablets.
Diclofenac Topical Gel
Generic for Voltaren
The same anti-inflammatory as a topical gel, applied directly to the joint.
Frequently asked questions
Good — and one of the most effective treatments. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling strengthen the muscles that support the joints and reduce stiffness. The key is consistency and gradual progression, not intensity.
Osteoarthritis is gradual mechanical wear of the cartilage, usually in specific joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that inflames joints on both sides of the body and requires specialized medications. A doctor distinguishes them through examination and testing.
NSAIDs are effective, but long-term use requires medical supervision because they can affect the stomach, kidneys, blood pressure, and heart. Your doctor chooses the option and dose that fit your health history — never increase the dose on your own.
Topical NSAIDs work well for joints close to the surface — knees and hands especially — and expose the rest of the body to less medication, which makes them a frequent choice for localized pain or for people who need to protect their stomach.
Many people report more stiffness with humidity or pressure changes, and some studies support the connection. Weather does not worsen the joint itself, but staying active and warm during those days usually helps with symptoms.
General frequently asked questions
Yes. Every prescription medication on this site requires a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Send us your prescription (e-Rx, fax, or a call to your prescriber), or transfer it from your current pharmacy.
Yes. Simply provide the name and phone number of your current pharmacy, and the transfer is handled for you — usually within 2 business days.
Prescriptions issued abroad cannot be dispensed directly. However, if you are already on treatment, a pharmacist can review your case and guide you through obtaining a valid U.S. prescription so your therapy continues without interruption.
No. Only your doctor or prescriber can change your treatment. Pharmacists are available to answer questions about your medication and coordinate with your prescriber when needed.
At either of our pharmacies — Boca Raton or Pompano Beach. You pay at the pharmacy when you pick up.
Yes. Chronic oral medications are eligible for a discounted 90-day supply, available on each product page.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or medication. Prescription medications are dispensed only with a valid prescription issued by a licensed healthcare provider.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Torre, PharmD, RPh — Pharmacist-in-Charge, Florida License PS40009