Which medication is commonly used for osteoarthritis pain?

Acetaminophen is commonly used for osteoarthritis pain due to its efficacy in alleviating mild to moderate pain while generally being well-tolerated with fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. Acetaminophen works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins in the brain, leading to reduced perception of pain.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease often characterized by localized pain. While ibuprofen can also be effective for pain relief, it is an NSAID that carries a higher risk of side effects such as gastrointestinal irritation and cardiovascular issues with long-term use. Corticosteroids are sometimes used for inflammatory conditions but are not the first line for osteoarthritis due to potential side effects with long-term use. Although antidepressants can be used for certain pain syndromes, they are not a standard treatment for osteoarthritis-related pain. Thus, acetaminophen is often recommended as an appropriate choice for managing osteoarthritis pain in many clinical guidelines.