NSAIDs are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium and celecoxib, among others. They are sold both as prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. They are used in the treatment of pain that is caused by inflammation such as the various forms of arthritis. They are not analgesics but work to reduce or prevent inflammation. OTC brand names include Advil, Aleve and Motrin, and the most commonly known prescription NSAID is Celebrex.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects may occur when taking NSAIDs, whether they are by prescription or purchased OTC. You must check with your doctor for any of these immediately. They may vary by the type of NSAID, but they include more common serious side effects such as wheezing while breathing, itching, swelling, belching, chest tightness, breathing difficulties, bruising, pain in the stomach, shortness of breath, headaches and skin eruptions, among others. Less common serious side effects, according to the Mayo Clinic, may include tunnel vision, tar-like defecation, mouth inflammation or swelling, urine that is cloudy, constipation, severe pain, cramps or burning in the stomach, double vision, color perception irregularities, appetite loss and night blindness. Rare serious side effects include anxiety, confusion, vision decreases, cold sweats, depression, diarrhea, skin blisters, blindness, dizziness, pain in the eyes, fainting, skin cracks, extreme fatigue or even a coma. Other rare effects include seizures, speech slurring, gaining weight, sneezing, throat soreness, nosebleeds, lack of breathing, eye irritation, breathing that is fast and shallow, bodily heat loss, lightheadedness, tachycardia, arrhythmia, nightmares and nervousness, among many others.
Temporary Side Effects
Any NSAID, like most other drugs, may induce certain side effects when you first take it that will not last past the initial phase. The Mayo Clinic reports as the more common of these temporary side effects nasal congestion, headaches, pain in the back, throat pain or a sensation of burning, insomnia, gas and a runny nose. Less common temporary side effects include excessive tearing, anxiety, defecation with bleeding, height decreases, loss of hair, walking or motion difficulties, pain in the joints, sexual intercourse pain, nervousness, vocal changes and hair thinning, among others. Rare temporary side effects may include crying, concentration difficulties, depersonalization, moods that change quickly, euphoria or dysphoria, paranoia and depression. Tell your doctor about any of these that persist.
Overdose Side Effects
NSAIDs should be taken in the recommended doses whether they are by prescription or OTC. If you exceed the right dose, check with your physician immediately if you get such overdose side effects as fainting suddenly, skin or lips that are blue, cramps in the stomach, sleeping problems, hallucinations, disorientation, tremors in the muscles, drowsiness or restlessness. More serious signs may include a coma, bradycardia and arrhythmia.
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