NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)

Overview

• NSAIDs are medications used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower high temperatures.
• Commonly used for conditions like headaches, painful periods, sprains and strains, colds, flu, COVID-19, and arthritis.
• Not suitable for everyone and can cause side effects.
• Check specific medicine information via Medicines A to Z.

Types of NSAIDs

• Available forms: tablets, capsules, suppositories, creams, gels, injections.
• Some are over-the-counter; others require a prescription.
• Main types include:
  • Ibuprofen
  • Naproxen
  • Diclofenac
  • Celecoxib
  • Mefenamic acid
  • Etoricoxib
  • Indomethacin
  • Aspirin (for pain relief)

Who Can Take NSAIDs

• Suitable for most, but caution advised for:
  • Individuals over 65
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • Those with asthma or past allergic reactions to NSAIDs
  • Individuals with a history of stomach ulcers, heart, liver, kidney issues
  • People on other medications
  • Children under 16 (avoid aspirin)

Side Effects of NSAIDs

• Risk of side effects increases with high doses, long-term use, elderly or poor health condition.
• Common side effects:
  • Indigestion, stomach aches, feeling sick, diarrhea
  • Stomach ulcers, internal bleeding, anemia
  • Headaches, drowsiness, dizziness
  • Allergic reactions
  • Rare: liver, kidney, heart issues (e.g., heart failure, heart attacks, strokes)
• Consult a doctor if side effects occur.

Interactions with Other Medicines

• NSAIDs can interact with other medicines, affecting efficacy and increasing side effects.
• Important to seek advice if taking:
  • Another NSAID
  • Low-dose aspirin, warfarin, ciclosporin
  • Diuretics, lithium, methotrexate
  • SSRIs (e.g., citalopram, fluoxetine)

Food and Alcohol

• Check medicine leaflet for food or drink restrictions.
• Typically, no food restrictions, but take with water or food to protect stomach.
• Usually safe to consume alcohol, but avoid excess.

Overdoses of NSAIDs

• Overdosing is dangerous.
• Seek immediate medical advice if an overdose occurs.
• Call emergency services for serious symptoms (seizures, breathing difficulties).

Alternatives to NSAIDs

• Alternatives are often preferred due to side effects.
• Paracetamol is a common alternative for pain relief.
• NSAID creams and gels may have fewer side effects.
• Doctors may recommend other medicines or therapies, such as physiotherapy.