Q: For some time I have been experiencing a sore tongue, which my doctor says is caused by the medications I take for RA. Is there anything I can take to relieve this problem?
A: Certain NSAIDs have been reported to be associated with the nephrotic syndrome, a reversible degenerative condition of the kidney associated with the leakage of protein in the urine. These include indomethacin, naproxen, tolmetin and fenoprofen, but this syndrome can be caused by any NSAID.
For osteoarthritis pain, acetaminophen would probably be a safer choice than these, or any other NSAID, for that matter. If you and your doctor feel that you need an NSAID, I would recommend using a nonacetylated salicylate preparation such as salsalate. To recognize or prevent problems in the future, your physician will need to monitor your kidney function.
Bernard Rubin, DO, Rheumatologist
