Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium, can help ease pain caused by a flare-up. Be sure to ask your doctor before taking these, though:
Your prescription medicines may have variations of the same ingredients as these drugs, so taking more could be dangerous. Topical pain relievers that contain salicylates, capsaicin, or counterirritants like menthol or camphor could also work well for RA flare-ups.