What are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)?

NSAIDs are one of the most commonly used classes of medications today. In essence, they are used to mitigate inflammatory processes. Inflammation is directly responsible for contributing to many different types of pain, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, headaches, low back pain , neck pain, joint pain, and acute spasm or strain to name a few.

Although quite effective and available relatively easily over the counter, it is of utmost importance to use these medications as directed. They can have the propensity to cause some serious side effects such as gastric of intestinal ulceration if over utilized.

NSAIDs are commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, neck pain, and back pain. NSAIDs are inexpensive and are commonly the first line of medication used to decrease pain and discomfort. Most people are familiar with nonprescription NSAIDs, such as aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen. 

NSAIDs work by blocking an enzyme. The enzyme is called cyclooxygenase, or COX, and it has two forms. COX-1 protects the stomach lining from acids and digestive chemicals. COX-2 is produced when joints are inflamed. Traditional NSAIDs block the actions of both COX-1 and COX-2.

COX-2 inhibitors such as Celebrex target only the COX-2 enzyme that stimulates the inflammatory response. Because they do not block the actions of the COX-1 enzyme, these medications typically do not cause the kind of stomach upset or ulcers that traditional NSAIDs may do. 

It is important to tell your physician if you are pregnant, have high blood pressure, asthma, or a history of kidney or liver disease, or have had stomach ulcers. NSAIDs may aggravate high blood pressure and your ability to clot blood, which may be serious when combined with other drugs that also decrease blood clotting, such as Coumadin. NSAIDs may intensify or decrease the effects of other medications you are taking, such as Lithium. Always discuss new medications with your doctor before trying, especially if your older than 65.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to relieve pain and fever and to reduce swelling and inflammation caused by injury or diseases such as arthritis. Aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and naproxen are commonly used NSAIDs.

NSAIDs may cause side effects. The most common are stomach upset, heartburn, and nausea. Taking NSAIDs with food may help prevent these problems.

Frequent or long-term use of NSAIDs may lead to stomach ulcers or high blood pressure. They can also cause a severe allergic reaction.

• NSAIDs have the potential to increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, skin reactions, and serious stomach and intestinal bleeding. These risks are greater if NSAIDs are taken at higher doses or for longer periods than recommended.
• Aspirin, unlike other NSAIDs, has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. It does carry the risks of serious stomach and intestinal bleeding as well as skin reactions.
• Because aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding, it is not recommended for new injuries. Take other medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen for the first 2 or 3 days after an injury.

NSAIDs should be taken exactly as prescribed or according to the label. Taking a larger dose or taking the medicine longer than recommended can increase the risk of dangerous side effects.

Talk to your doctor about whether NSAIDs are right for you. People who are older than 65 or who have existing heart, stomach, kidney, liver, or intestinal disease are at higher risk for problems. For other people, the benefits may outweigh the risks.

Aspirin should not be given to anyone younger than 20 because of the risk of Reye syndrome, a rare but serious disease.