OA Flashcards
What is the most prevalent form of arthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA)
OA affects more than 46 million Americans.
What is a major risk factor associated with osteoarthritis?
Aging
Large weight-bearing joints like the hip and knee are commonly affected.
What are common symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Pain and swelling
Symptoms result from activation of nociceptive nerve endings in the damaged joint.
What role do cytokines play in osteoarthritis?
They contribute to secondary inflammation and cartilage destruction.
What are the primary therapy goals for osteoarthritis?
Relieve pain and swelling, maintain or improve joint function, prevent loss of function, and maintain or improve quality of life.
What is the first line of drug therapy for osteoarthritis?
NSAIDs
Topical agents are preferred, particularly for knee OA.
What should be avoided in chronic NSAID use?
Chronic use of NSAIDs
If necessary, use COX-2 selective NSAID or add a proton pump inhibitor.
What effect does weight loss have on osteoarthritis?
Decreases biomechanical load on large weight-bearing joints.
What types of therapy are included in non-pharmacologic treatment for osteoarthritis?
Patient education, exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and surgery.
What topical agent is conditionally recommended for knee OA?
Topical capsaicin
Usually dosed four times daily on a scheduled basis.
What is the maximum recommended dosage of acetaminophen for older adults?
3 g daily in divided doses.
What is a potential risk of glucocorticoid injections?
Risk of septic arthritis and synovitis.
What dietary supplement is frequently utilized for osteoarthritis pain relief?
Glucosamine-containing supplements.
What does the 2019 American College of Rheumatology recommend regarding glucosamine?
Recommend against the use of glucosamine supplements for knee, hip, and/or hand OA.
What is tramadol used for in osteoarthritis treatment?
Alternative when NSAIDs are ineffective or contraindicated.
What should be monitored in patients taking opioids for osteoarthritis?
Adverse effects.
Fill in the blank: The balance of chondrocyte function shifts from formation to _______ in osteoarthritis.
destruction.
True or False: Non-tramadol opioids are conditionally recommended for patients with knee, hand, and/or hip OA.
False
They are conditionally recommended against except in certain circumstances.
What is a key consideration for patients taking aspirin while on NSAIDs?
Take aspirin at least 30 minutes before the first daily NSAID dose.
What is a recommended monitoring practice for chronic NSAID users?
Complete blood cell count, BUN, SCr, and aspartate aminotransferase at least annually.
