Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medications used to relieve pain and inflammation. These medications are available over the counter and by prescription. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, NSAIDs specifically block an enzyme in the body called cyclooxygenase. This enzyme is necessary for producing pain and inflammation. A few types of drugs are categorized as NSAIDs.
Sulindac
Sulindac is an NSAID used to relieve the stiffness, pain and swelling in such medical problems as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis of the spine and pelvis), according to MedlinePlus. This drug also treats shoulder pain and gouty arthritis, a joint pain that results from uric acid accumulation. Additionally, sulindac is also used to decrease the number of colon and rectal polyps.
MedlinePlus says sulindac's side effects include dizziness, diarrhea, a headache, constipation, gas and ringing in the ears. Sulindac can also lead to fevers, chest pain, muscle or joint pain, a fast heartbeat, a poor appetite and abnormal bleeding or bruising. In some cases, sulindac can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and a stroke or heart attack.
Sulindac is a tablet taken two times a day with food.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is an NSAID used to relieve the pain from rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. The National Library of Medicine says ibuprofen is also used to manage primary dysmenorrhea, commonly known as menstrual cramps.
Ibuprofen's side effects include nausea, heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and constipation. Indigestion, dizziness, a headache, poor appetite and fluid retention are ibuprofen's additional side effects. Like sulindac, ibuprofen can increase the chances of gastrointestinal bleeding, a heart attack and stroke.
Ibuprofen is available over the counter, and the typical dose is 1,200 to 3,200mg daily, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Oxaprozin
Oxaprozin is also an NSAID utilized to manage the pain manifestations of arthritis.
According to Drugs.com, oxaprozin's side effects include blurry vision, ringing of the ears (tinnitus), a dry mouth, stomach problems, a headache, nervousness, dizziness and heartburn. Oxaprozin can also cause stomach pain, diarrhea, bloating, constipation, black or bloody stools, decreased urination, muscle weakness and a skin rash. Oxaprozin can lead to gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding and increase the risk of either a heart attack or stroke.
Oxaprozin is a prescription NSAID that must be taken as prescribed. Drugs.com says oxaprozin's maximum dose is 1,200mg a day.
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