Medication

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed for the pain and swelling caused by RSI. One of the most common is ibuprofen, which can be of help, but can sometimes cause stomach irritation, constipation or diarrhoea. Other medication includes: antidepressants and tranquillizers. Low does of tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline, are thought to have some specific painkilling effect in chronic pain conditions such as RSI. Low doses of antidepressants are also sometimes prescribed as hypnotics (i.e. sleeping tablets), while at higher doses they are used to lift low mood, a common consequence of chronic pain. However all antidepressants have unwanted side effects e.g. daytime drowsiness, impairment of concentration and judgement, dry mouth, giddiness and difficulty passing water.

Tranquillisers can help with calming and sleep and may sometimes help reduce muscle spasam. However, the body can become tolerant to them very quickly, so they become less effective and potentially habit forming.

It is important to bear in mind that any form of painkilling or anti inflammatory medication is not a cure for an RSI type condition. They work as temporary pain relief but do not tackle the cause of the pain. It is therefore important that medication should not be the only form of treatment.