Everything You Wanted to Know About NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Examples

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) you can buy without a prescription (not a complete list)

Generic Name	Brand Name
ibuprofen	Advil, Motrin
naproxen	Aleve

Aspirin is another example of an NSAID that you can buy without a prescription. But aspirin works differently from these other NSAIDs. See the topic Aspirin for more information.

Prescription NSAIDs (not a complete list)

Generic Name	Brand Name
celecoxib	Celebrex
diclofenac	Voltaren
ibuprofen
ketoprofen
naproxen	Anaprox
piroxicam	Feldene
sulindac	Clinoril

Voltaren is available in a pill and also in a gel that can be rubbed on the skin over a painful area.

If your doctor prescribed NSAIDs, take them exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you have any problems with your medicine. Always read and follow all instructions on the label.

How It Works

NSAIDs reduce inflammation and relieve fever and pain by blocking enzymes and proteins made by the body. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen block a protein (called prostaglandin) that makes heavy menstrual bleeding worse. Aspirin does not block this protein.

Why It Is Used

NSAIDs relieve pain and fever. They also reduce swelling and inflammation caused by an injury or a disease such as arthritis.

Some NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, help ease cramping and reduce blood loss from heavy menstrual bleeding.

How Well It Works

NSAIDs work well to relieve pain, decrease fever, and reduce swelling and inflammation caused by an injury or disease.1 Some NSAIDs help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.2, 3 NSAIDs can help relieve the pain of kidney stones.4

Side Effects

All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.

Here are some important things to think about:

• Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
• Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
• If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Continue reading at: http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/nonsteroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs-nsaids