Unproven Remedies for Arthritis.

Last updated Wednesday, January 05, 2005

How safe is it?

Can unproven remedies for arthritis cause side effects?

Along with the desired benefits for arthritis, treatments may also cause unwanted effects on your health. These are called side effects.

Some side effects can be very serious. You need to know how any new treatment is likely to affect you--how safe it is. You and your doctor can weigh this information to see if the benefits are worth the risk. You can use certain safety tip-offs to spot unproven remedies.

Comes without directions for use

Your doctor will tell you when and how to use a new treatment. How you use a new treatment may affect how well it works or may help avoid unwanted side effects. For instance, your doctor may tell you to take your arthritis medication with a meal to avoid an upset stomach. Suspect an unproven remedy if a treatment comes without directions.

Does not list contents

You should know what's in any new medication or treatment that you take. Look for a list on the label. Some ads for a miracle drug for arthritis actually are just aspirin at a high price. Some unlabeled Chinese herbal pills as well as drugs from Mexican border clinics have been found to contain corticosteroids. These are powerful drugs for arthritis. They have many side effects and should never be used without your doctor's supervision.

Has no warnings about side effects

You should be told about any side effects. There should be warnings on the label or instructions stating who should not use the treatment.

Described as harmless or natural

Many people think that natural means harmless. Scientists look for tests to prove that a treatment is safe and also has some benefits. For example, snake venom is natural but it can be harmful.

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