Update from the American College of Rheumatology: Cox-2 Inhibitors and Why We Miss Them

I am distressed that we continue to advocate for drugs that clearly have harmful side effects.  Omega 3 fatty acids (fish oil) are a natural anti-inflammatory whose only side effects are good ones.  Unfortunately, many people who take fish oil are not reaping the benefits because they take insufficient quantitiews or consume oils in a difficult to absorb form.  Take at least 3 grams of absorbable Omega 3s daily and you will see a dramatic anti-inflammatory impact in just two weeks.  Remember, these are not pain relievers that work quickly.  They need to build up in your system.  To make sure you are getting an oil in the most absorbable form, try a liquid product.  They are always presented in the triglyceride form which is more easily absorbed.

I have had very good results with Celebrex and have only been on it for about 6 weeks.  I have had a reduction in swelling of all joints, gained some range of motion, and have had less pain with more energy. I also take Prevacid to protect the stomach. I am careful to keep my Dr appmts and let him know of any changes.  Its a bit pricey, but for the benefits I have received so far, I will save money somewhere else with pleasure.  Feeling good with RA is a good thing!