There are several kinds of drugs that reduce inflammation in the body. The two main types are steroids also called corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). There also are new drugs under development but not yet available for human use called immune selective anti-inflammatory derivatives (ImSAIDs), which are not related to steroids or NSAIDs. Most corticosteroids are available through prescriptions while NSAIDs are both over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and prescription-strength drugs.
Prescription Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are strong medications, the Mayo Clinic reports, that generally are administered as short-term treatments. They have serious side effects, especially if taken for long periods. These types of drugs may treat conditions in the eyes, the lungs and other parts of the body. Prednisone, for example, may be used in the treatment of inflammation associated with asthma, the various forms of arthritis and allergies among other conditions. It reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system. It can cause side effects, which include from mental confusion to hallucinations to indigestion and hiccups. Prednisone is marketed under a variety of names including Prelone, Aristocort, Medrol, Oraped, Decadron and others. Prednisone is administered via a pill or injection. Other anti-inflammatory corticosteroids are low-level topical medications such as Cortizone-10, Scalacort, Hytone and Cotacort. These are applied directly to the skin to relieve symptoms of skin conditions such as swelling, itching, redness and discomfort. While most of these are prescription drugs, there are other low-dose drugs such as hydrocortisone that you can buy OTC.
Prescription NSAIDs
NSAIDs that are prescribed by your doctor typically are used in the treatment of pain, stiffness and swelling associated with types of arthritis that include rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. They also may be used in the treatment of conditions such as bursitis, gout, menstrual cramps and tendonitis. They include brand-name drugs such as Naprosyn, Aflaxen, Indocin, Anaprox and Celebrex. Of these, Celebrex, or generically celecoxib, is a common treatment for arthritis, while Indocin, or generically indomethacin, typically is prescribed for gout or spinal joint arthritis called ankylosing spondylitis.
OTC Anti-inflammatory Drugs
NSAIDs are the most commonly used anti-inflammatory medications sold OTC. They include common drugs such as ibuprofen sold under such brand names as Advil, Motrin and Midol; naproxen sodium sold most commonly as Aleve; and aspirin or acetylsalicylic acid sold most commonly as Bayer Aspirin. They typically relieve minor pain caused by inflammation such as arthritis and headaches.
