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Anti-Inflammatory Medication
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Medication (NSAIDS) have become one of the most popular medications in the world. There are many different NSAIDS, at least twenty in the U.S., but they are all related to each other. Unlike corticosteroids, these medications block inflammation by a different pathway. They are effective in reducing the pain and swelling associated with many orthopaedic conditions.
Aspirin was the first NSAID. Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin) is by far the most popular. Other NSAIDS have become available for over the counter use (Aleve, Orudis) recently, and you can expect many more to be available soon. Generally, the over-the-counter medication is identical to the prescribed medication, but is a smaller dose. There are once a day NSAIDS (Relafen, Daypro, Orudis and others) that are more convenient to take.
All medications have side effects, and the most common side effect from NSAIDS is stomach or gastrointestinal upset. Therefore, NSAIDS should be taken with food, and discontinued if abdominal pain persists. Another side effect of NSAIDS is interfering in the normal blood clotting mechanism. Patients on chronic NSAID use may notice easy bruisability, bleeding gums, or other signs of 'thinned blood'.
Recently, a new type of NSAID has been developed. All of the previous NSAIDS have worked by interfering with the 'COX1' enzyme. Unfortunately, COX1 is also involved is protecting the stomach, the blood coagulation process, and many other important bodily functions. The COX2 enzyme is specific for inflammation, and COX2 inhibitors (Celebrex, Vioxx) were recently approved by the FDA. Other COX2 inhibitors are expected soon. The advantage of these new medications is that they do not bother the stomach, can be taken without food, and do not interfere in the clotting process.
Every person responds differently to NSAIDS. Some people respond to most of them, and for other people only a few different NSAIDS may work. If an NSAID is ineffective, have your doctor change you to one in a different class.
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