Anti-inflammatory medications, such as NSAIDs and steroids, work to reduce pain by decreasing inflammation in joints and tissues. They often have an analgesic (pain-reducing) effect as well. Some commonly used NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin, which are readily available over-the-counter or in prescription form. Steroids used to relive inflammation are usually available by prescription only. While anti-inflammatories are one of the most commonly used pain treatments, they do have side effects for some people.
Cardiovascular Events
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), people who take NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen have a higher risk for cardiovascular events such as a heart attack or a stroke, if they take their medications for an extended period of time. This can occur with both prescription and over-the-counter forms of the medications. Aspirin, however, does not increase the risk for cardiovascular problems, according to the NIH.
Ulcers
Gastrointestinal (GI) problems are another common side effect of regular anti-inflammatory use. These include vomiting or other more serious side effects such as stomach or intestinal ulcers. According to the Drug Effectiveness Review Project, this risk is fairly equally distributed among all types of anti-inflammatory medications. The risk is higher, however, for people who take large doses of anti-inflammatories on a regular basis.
GI Bleeding
A more-serious side effect of regular anti-inflammatory use is GI bleeding, a condition that requires medical attention. According to the NIH, some of the signs of GI bleeding include black stools, blood in the stools or vomit that resembles coffee grounds. If you notice any of these symptoms while taking anti-inflammatories, notify your doctor immediately.
Nausea
Some anti-inflammatory medications may irritate the stomach's lining, which can cause nausea. To counter the effects on the stomach lining, some medications are available in a coated form. Another way to potentially reduce nausea when taking an anti-inflammatory is to take it at the same time you eat.
Ringing Ears
Anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen and naproxen may cause the ears to ring. While this is not serious, it is a good idea to consult your doctor if the symptom does not go away, or if it becomes bothersome or problematic. Other anti-inflammatory medications do not usually have this effect.
Weight Gain
Cortisone, according to Northern Inyo Hospital in Bishop, California, is known to cause weight gain for some people who take it on a regular basis. While this side effect is not serious, it can be frustrating. However, if weight gain is sudden or becomes excessive, or it is unexplained, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor.
Serious Side Effects
While most side effects of anti-inflammatory medications are not serious, there are some that could potentially be signs of a more-serious condition. For that reason, any of the following symptoms that appear while taking anti-inflammatory medications should be investigated by a doctor as soon as possible:
• Fever
• Unexplained itching, rash or hives
• Swelling in the arms, legs or face
• Extreme fatigue or drowsiness
• Cloudy or bloody urine
• Visual problems
• Excessive thirst
If you experience any of these symptoms while taking an anti-inflammatory medication, do not take any more until you speak with your doctor.
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