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Published on: March 24, 2023
Treatment options for osteoarthritis: considerations for older adults
Sheila M Seed1, Kaelen C Dunican, Ann M Lynch
1Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Worcester, MA 01608, USA. sheila.seed@mcphs.edu
Abstract:
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and the leading cause of disability among older adults in the United States. Treatment options such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the most widely used agents to manage mild-to-moderate pain. Treatment with tramadol or opioids is usually reserved for severe pain associated with OA. These agents do not come without risk, especially for older adults. Patient-specific parameters and comorbid conditions must be considered when evaluating treatment options for older adults. This article reviews pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches to the management of OA in older adults.
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