Anti-inflammatory drugs are substances used in the treatment of inflammation to reduce swelling. Many anti inflammatory drugs are used as analgesics or pain relievers, which work by reducing inflammation. On the other hand, opioids are anti inflammatory medicines that reduce pain by acting on your central nervous system.
Here is some information about common drugs that have anti inflammatory effects and how to use them.
Anti-inflammatory drugs are also called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to distinguish them from steroid-based drugs, which also have anti inflammatory properties.
NSAIDs are medications widely used in the treatment of a wide range of conditions characterized by the following:
Common acute conditions that are treated with NSAIDs include:
NSAIDs can also be used to treat common chronic conditions such as:
There are many drugs in the market with anti inflammatory properties. These anti inflammatory drugs may be prescribed by your doctor or bought off the shelves without any prescription.
NSAIDs that are available over-the-counter are generally safe and effective when taken as directed. Here are a few examples:
|
Generic |
Brands |
|
aspirin |
Ascriptin, Bayer, Ecotrin |
|
ibuprofen |
Advil, Motrin |
|
naproxen sodium |
Aleve |
Some anti inflammatory drugs need a doctor’s prescription. Here are some examples:
|
Generic |
Brands |
|
celecoxib |
Celebrex |
|
etodolac |
Lodine |
|
diflunisal |
Dolobid |
|
diclofenac |
Voltaren |
|
piroxicam |
Feldene |
|
fenoprofen |
Nalfon |
|
diclofenac+misoprostol |
Arthrotec |
|
indomethacin |
Indocin |
|
ketorolac tromethamine |
Toradol |
|
meloxicam |
Mobic |
|
flurbiprofen |
Ansaid |
|
naproxen |
Anaprox, Naprosyn |
|
naproxen+esomeprazole |
Vimovo |
|
nabumetone |
Relafen |
|
oxaprozin |
Daypro |
|
salsalate |
Disalcid |
|
tolmetin |
TolectinDS |
|
sulindac |
Clinoril |
Most NSAIDs are reasonably safe, but it is important to be aware of their potential side effects. Anti inflammatory drugs have warnings on their labels regarding the risks of side effects, including stomach bleeding, heart attack, and stroke.
The safest way to use NSAIDs is to use them at low doses for brief periods only. Side effects usually occur if you take large doses over a long time (several months/years). Most side effects are mild and may go away on their own by reducing your dose. However, some side effects are more serious and may need medical attention. The most common NSAID side effects include:
Bleeding tendency, especially with aspirin. You may be asked to stop taking NSAIDs before having surgery. Consult your doctor before taking anti inflammatory medicines if you are taking blood-thinning medications (ex. Coumadin).
Ringing in the ears, especially with aspirin. Reducing the dose improves this side effect.
Liver/kidney problems. People who take NSAIDS for long periods must have blood tests taken to check for liver/kidney damage. People with kidney disease should not take anti inflammatory drugs without their doctor’s advice.
Consult your doctor and be cautious about taking anti inflammatory drugs if you have the following conditions:
Note: Do not give aspirin to children under age 16 unless prescribed by a doctor.