Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are drugs that can be used to treat pain, reduce inflammation and reduce fever. They are commonly used to treat inflammatory diseases and injuries that cause pain, inflammation and swelling. Learn about NSAIDs to understand what types are available and their associated contraindications, side effects and risks.
Types
Aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, ketoprofen and indomethacin are all NSAIDs. Aspirin is commonly used to treat fevers and reduce pain and inflammation. However, it should not be used in children, as aspirin has been linked to a serious condition called Reye's syndrome. Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory drug that can be used if someone is allergic to aspirin. The effects of ibuprofen in children are not completely understood, so it should be used only by adults. Acetaminophen is found in Tylenol and Tempra and is used as a pain reliever and fever reducer. This drug can be used safely in children and teens. Naproxen, ketoprofen and indomethacin block the effects of prostaglandins, which are local hormones that can cause pain and inflammation.
Contraindications
NSAIDS should not be used in women who are pregnant or those who have ulcers or asthma. Anyone with a known allergy to one of these drugs should not use NSAIDs for pain relief or fever reduction. These drugs should be used with caution in people who have liver disease, high blood pressure, lupus, kidney disease, a history of stomach bleeding as well as bleeding and clotting disorders. Smokers should also use caution when using this type of drug.
Side Effects
Common side effects of NSAIDs include stomach irritation, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, indigestion, easy bruising of the skin, blurred vision, gas, bloating, rash, ringing in the ears or skin itching. Serious side effects include coughing up blood, low fever, loss of appetite, jaundice, fever, sore throat, bloody stools, tarry stools, weakness, chest pain, problems with balance, slurred speech and shortness of breath. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these serious side effects occur.
Drug Interactions
This type of drug reduces blood flow to the kidneys and can reduce the effectiveness of diuretics or decrease the elimination of methotrexate and lithium. NSAIDs also increase bleeding and should not be used by people who have clotting or bleeding disorders or those who are taking medications that increase bleeding. This type of drug can also decrease the effectiveness of medications used to treat high blood pressure.
Risks & Complications
One of the major risks of using NSAIDs is that they can cause gastrointestinal complications such as perforation, ulcers and bleeding. NSAIDs also increase blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people who already have high blood pressure that is not well-controlled.
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