Learn more about the risks of your arthritis medication to prevent liver damage

Arthritis is one mean condition that can affect people of any age. For many who are in their 40s and 50s and living with arthritis, they know all too well that it is a painful condition that impairs daily activities. For years, the drug flavocoxid has helped ease the pain of people suffering from arthritis. It is alarming to learn, however, that a new study revealed how flavacoxid may pose a danger to the liver.

Arthritis is a common disease that is caused by the breakdown of cartilage and inflammation of the joints over years of wear, tear and use. There are various treatments to address different kinds of arthritis.

Flavocoxid comes as a medical food. The pure medicinal component is mixed with elements found in healthy green teas such as catechins and flavonoids. It also comes with other healthy ingredients such as peanuts, apples, soy and cauliflower. It’s a prescription drug that is given to patients with osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis.

As a medical food, however, flavocoxid remains an object of concern of many researchers and pharmaceutical companies.
In a study recently published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, over 800 patients were observed. Researchers believe that liver injury found in some patients was caused by the use of this medical food flavocoxid. Cases of hepatitis, elevated liver enzymes, and jaundice were found in some patients. After discontinuing the use of this “drug” (medical food flavocoxid), the patients’ conditions gradually improved.

The research findings are definitely a blow to the reputable name that flavocoxid has stood for to arthritis patients. It is important to note however that in spite of its popularity, it is ranked as a nutritional supplement and not a drug. This means that more clinical trials are still needed to prove the safety and effectiveness of flavocoxid. The final say lies in the Food and Drug Administration. We are waiting word from the FDA for its approval to endorse the “drug” as safe for consumers. In the meantime, people with arthritis are advised to look for other alternatives to treat their arthritis without the liver risk. Talk with your doctor if you are living with arthritis and want to know more about your medical and holistic options.