NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of drugs commonly used for the reduction of mild-to-moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and/or stiffness -- as well as for the treatment of a number of medical conditions related to pain and inflammation. NSAIDs work by inhibiting the action of certain hormones, called prostaglandins, that cause inflammation and pain in the body. A few common side effects of NSAIDs include nausea, an unexplained rash, and abdominal pain (or stomach pain).

 

What Are NSAIDs?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are a class of medicines used to reduce mild-to-moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and/or stiffness. They are also used to treat a number of medical conditions that cause pain and inflammation. Not all NSAIDs are approved for the same uses.
 
NSAIDs are available in both prescription and non-prescription strengths. They are also available in both brand name versions and generics. NSAIDs may also be used alone or combined with other medications in several common cold, flu, and sinus products. These medications can help to relieve aches, pains, and fever that result from common cold symptoms, flu symptoms, or sinus problems.
 
(Click What Are NSAIDs Used For? for more information on these uses, as well as possible off-label uses for NSAIDs.)
 

How Do NSAIDs Work?

NSAIDs are thought to work by inhibiting the action of certain hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. These hormones are called prostaglandins.
 

NSAIDs Effects

By blocking the effects of prostaglandins, NSAIDs are useful at reducing pain and inflammation related to bone, muscle, or tendon injury. These medications can also help to reduce fever and alleviate pain or joint swelling associated with different forms of arthritis and other conditions.
 
(NSAIDs Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;