Medications for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.
Medications for carpal tunnel syndrome are prescribed to reduce swelling in the carpal tunnel. Two different kinds of medicine may be effective; both are aimed at reducing inflammation, a primary cause of swelling in this area.
Glucocorticoids (cortisone-like drugs, steroids)
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
- Triamcinolone (Aristocort, Kenacort)
- Dexamethasone (Decadron)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Indomethacin (Indocin)
- Naproxen (Naprosyn, Anaprox)
- Celecoxib (Celebrex)
- Rofecoxib (Vioxx)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)–lower doses
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Piroxicam (Feldene)
- Sulindac (Clinoril)
Prescription Medications
Glucocorticoids
These cortisone-like drugs are given in short, sometimes tapering, bursts lasting a week or two. Glucocorticoids can produce a number of negative side effects, particularly when taken for prolonged periods. For this reason, your healthcare provider will prescribe them only for a short time and monitor you while taking them. These medications are often quite effective in reducing inflammation.
Common names include:
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
- Dexamethasone (Decadron)
- Triamcinolone (Aristocort, Kenacort)
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
There are currently twenty prescription NSAIDs on the market, each having a slightly different chemistry and side effect profile. NSAIDs can be as effective as cortisone and are safer over the long run, although they do have side effects. The newer and more expensive selective NSAIDs (celecoxib and rofecoxib) are expected to produce fewer stomach and intestinal problems.
Common names include:
- Indomethacin (Indocin)
- Naproxen (Naprosyn, Anaprox)
- Celecoxib (Celebrex)
- Rofecoxib (Vioxx)
Take special care with NSAIDs if you have had an ulcer or gastritis , as they can irritate these conditions. Tell your doctor if you have a stomach condition before you start taking any of these medications.
Cortisone Injection
An injection of cortisone directly into the carpal tunnel may be used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome if rest, medications, and lifestyle changes are not working. This is a simple office procedure that is quite safe if done infrequently. Cortisone reduces inflammation, thereby reducing the swelling and pressure inside the carpal tunnel.
Injections very rarely cause excessive bleeding and even more rarely cause infection. If there is excessive pain or swelling, contact your healthcare provider.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Lower doses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are sold over the counter and include:
Take special care with NSAIDs if you have had an ulcer or gastritis, as they can irritate these conditions. Tell your doctor if you have a stomach condition before you start taking any of these medications.
Special Considerations
Whenever you are taking a prescription medication, take the following precautions:
- Take them as directed—not more, not less, not at a different time.
- Do not stop taking them without consulting your doctor.
- Don’t share them with anyone else.
- Know what effects and side effects to expect, and report them to your doctor.
- If you are taking more than one drug, even if it is over-the-counter, be sure to check with a physician or pharmacist about drug interactions.
- Plan ahead for refills so you don’t run out.
References:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://www.aaos.org/ .
Drug Facts and Comparisons. 56th ed. Facts and Comparisons; 2001.
Last reviewed August 2008 by Robert Leach, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.