NSAID's have been used for many years to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendonitis for years. Some have anti-inflammatory qualities like those of corticosteroids without the side effects of steroids. Certain NSAIDs are also analgesics, or pain relieves. There are three primary types.
- Non-Acetylated Salicylates
NSAID's such as aspirin, Motrin, Aleve and other prescription medications act by blocking the production of prostaglandins, a family of chemicals that cause inflammation. Prostaglandins are responsible for the characteristics of inflammation:
redness, warmth, swelling and pain. They are also involved in some of the body's housekeeping functions such as helping blood to clot, and protecting the stomach from ulcers. Prostaglandins also performs a variety of hormone-like actions aiding blood pressure control and smooth-muscle contractions.
Two enzymes, Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), appear to limit the rate of prostaglandin production. The level of COX-1 is fairly constant in gastrointestinal mucous, platelets and the body's cells, however, COX-2 varies greatly. In many cells, low amounts of COX-2 can be increased by various stimuli, including inflammatory cytokines, bacterial toxins and growth factors; this suggests that COX-2 plays a role in inflammation, infection and cellular proliferation.
Traditional NSAIDs inhibit both COX-1 and Cox-2 production. This non-selective inhibition is now strongly believed to be the reason why NSAID's carry a small but real risk of bleeding and stomach ulceration.
Although NSAID's are reasonably safe medications, it is important that you are aware of the potential side effects. Please ask your doctors for side effect information.
Results very depending on dosage and inflammation spots.
NSAIDs are often used in conjunction with DMARDs, prednisone and/or muscle relaxants.
The information on this site is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient and his/her existing physician.
Do not take OTC NSAIDs without your doctors approval.
