What You Need to Know About Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Medications: How NSAIDs Work

What are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications?
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) effectively reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Inflammation is the body's protective response to irritation or injury and is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling and pain. NSAIDs are used to treat a variety of conditions that cause pain and swelling of joints such as rheumatoid arthritis and tendinitis. NSAIDs are also used to treat a variety of other conditions such as osteoarthritis, muscle sprains, back strains, and more.

How do NSAIDs work?
NSAIDs work by blocking the production of certain body chemicals that cause inflammation. NSAIDs are effective in treating pain caused by slow, prolonged tissue damage, such as the pain associated with an arthritic joint. NSAIDs are also effective in treating general or localized pain, such as back pain, menstrual cramps and headaches.

NSAIDs work like corticosteroids (also called steroids) without many of the side effects associated with steroids. Steroids are man-made drugs that closely resemble cortisone, a naturally-occurring hormone. Like cortisone, NSAIDs are effective in reducing pain and inflammation often associated with joint and muscle diseases and injuries.

Are NSAIDs available without a prescription?
Yes. Over-the-counter NSAIDs are available without a prescription. Over-the-counter NSAIDs are available in much lower doses than comparable prescription NSAIDs. Current over-the-counter NSAIDs include:

- Aspirin compounds (such as Anacin, Ascriptin, Bayer, Bufferin and Excedrin)

- Ketoprofen (such as Orudis)

- Ibuprofen (such as Motrin, Advil, Nuprin and Medipren)

- Naproxen sodium (such as Aleve)

Over-the-counter NSAIDs are effective in treating mild osteoarthritis and some muscle injuries. As with any medication, always follow the directions on the label and the instructions from your health care provider.

How long should I use an over-the-counter NSAID?
Never use an over-the-counter NSAID continuously for more than two weeks without consulting your health care provider. Over-the-counter NSAIDs are effective pain-relievers, but they are intended for short-term use. When taking NSAIDs for long periods of time, you should be carefully monitored by your health care provider so he or she can detect the development of harmful side effects and modify your treatment if necessary.

How long do NSAIDs take to work?
Some NSAIDs work within a few hours. Others may take a week or two before most benefits are achieved. Generally, for acute muscle injuries, we recommend NSAIDs that work quickly, but may need to be taken as often as every 4 to 6 hours because of their short action time.

For long-term treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, we generally recommend NSAIDs that need to be taken only once or twice a day. However, it generally takes longer for these drugs to have a therapeutic effect.

When are NSAIDs prescribed?
NSAIDs are often prescribed for rheumatologic diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and moderate to severe osteoarthritis. NSAIDs are also prescribed for moderately painful musculoskeletal conditions (such as back pain).

This information is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.