Frequently recommend New Chapter’s Zyflamend, which contains ginger, turmeric, and other anti-inflammatory herbs, for OA and other chronic pain conditions involving inflammation. It appears to lack the side effects of prescription COX-2 inhibitors, but may take up to two months to relieve pain.

To switch from COX-2s to this herbal product, I suggest the following approach (consult with your doctor before cutting your dose of COX-2s): Start on zyflamend at half the recommended dose and continue taking your usual dose of cox-2s. After one month, cut the COX-2 dose in half and increase the Zyflamend to the full recommended dose. A month later, take only the Zyflamend and see whether your symptoms improve. Zyflamend is sold in many health food stores