What You Need to Know About Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Use When Prescribed

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).

How are NSAIDs prescribed?
NSAIDs are prescribed in different doses, depending on your condition. Dosage may range from one to four doses per day.

Your health care provider may prescribe higher doses of NSAIDs if you have rheumatoid arthritis, for example, because there is frequently a significant degree of heat, swelling, redness and stiffness in the joints. Lower doses may be prescribed for osteoarthritis and acute muscle injuries, since there is generally less swelling and frequently no warmth or redness to the joints.

No single NSAID is guaranteed to work. Your health care provider may prescribe several types of NSAIDs in order to find the one that works best for you.

What are some prescription NSAIDs?

How will my health care provider choose a NSAID that is right for me?
The effectiveness and the risks of drugs are considered when your health care provider plans your treatment. Your health care provider will work with you to develop an appropriate treatment program. The drugs that will be prescribed will match the seriousness of your condition. Your health care provider will consider the results of your medical history, physical exam, X-rays and blood tests to create your treatment plan. Your health care provider will also consider the presence of other medical conditions.

It is important to meet with your health care provider regularly so he or she can detect the development of any harmful side effects and modify your treatment if necessary. Your health care provider may periodically order blood tests or other tests (including a kidney function test) to determine the effectiveness of your treatment and the presence of any harmful side effects.

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.