Arthritis Medications (Cont.)

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs represent a large class of arthritis medications that are useful against both pain and inflammation. These medicines are staples in arthritis treatment. NSAIDs are thought to work by blocking the action of certain hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. These hormones are called prostaglandins.
 
Many NSAIDs can be used for the treatment of arthritis. Some are available over the counter (for example, aspirin, Advil®, Motrin®, Aleve®, and ketoprofen). Other NSAIDs require a prescription.
 
Some examples of NSAIDs that can be used to treat arthritis include:
 
Some of the most common NSAIDs side effects include:
 
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal pain (or stomach pain)
  • Heartburn
  • Dizziness
  • An unexplained rash.
     
There are also less common, but serious, side effects of NSAIDs, such as a heart attack or stroke, congestive heart failure, or an allergic reaction.
 
(Click NSAIDs Side Effects for more information on side effects with NSAIDs, including serious side effects to look out for.)
 
There are also certain groups of people who may be at a higher risk of side effects while taking NSAIDs (such as those with heart disease or stomach ulcers). These people should take NSAIDs with caution or not at all.
 
(Click NSAIDs Warnings and Precautions for more information on specific warnings and precautions with NSAIDs, including a list of people who should not take NSAIDs.)
 
(Arthritis Medications Continued: Page 4)

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD