There are a large number of medications which are placed into the category of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These medications are used for a wide variety of ailments, including eliminating inflammation, alleviating pain, and reducing fevers.

Some of the most common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications available in the United States and Europe include Celebrex (celecoxib), Voltaren (diclofenac), Motrin (ibobrofen), Aleve (Naproxen), and aspirin.

All nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications work in similar ways. They act by inhibiting a specific chemical pathways known as the COX pathways. There are two COX pathways COX-1 and COX-2. It the COX-2 pathway which is mostly responsible for inflammation, pain, and fever. Some of the newer nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories attempt to target only the COX-2 pathway, while leaving the COX-1 pathway alone. This medications often have fewer side effects than their earlier generation siblings.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories are generally well tolerated in most people. Most of them are considered safe enough to be available over-the-counter without the need for a prescription from a doctor. Because there are many different types of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, your doctor does have the ability to prescribe some which are stronger than those available over-the-counter.

Despite the relative safety in the general population, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories are associated with different side effects. The most common side effects associated with these medications include headache, nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, and constipation. Some people will also see some swelling and fluid retention in their limbs, known as edema. It is possible to experience a rash after taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory

Rarely, the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory is can lead to some more serious conditions. People should not take these medications if they are suffering from liver failure, kidney failure, or have a history of ulcers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications can make any of these conditions worse. They should also not be taken if you have a history of prolonged bleeding, as they can thin the blood.

Although it has already been mentioned, the risk of developing an ulcer is a serious potential complication of taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories. If these ulcers perforate and begin bleeding, a person can become dangerously ill very quickly. In addition to the risk of developing an ulcer, there is some evidence that some NSAIDs increase the risk for developing a heart attack, or stroke. This risk is increased in the elderly.

It is possible to be allergic to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories. People who are allergic to these medications will develop shortness of breath after they take a dose. Having asthma increases the risk of an allergic reaction to one of these medications.

In addition to the above risks, there is a serious condition which can develop in children who take aspirin. This condition is known as Reye's syndrome. Consequently, young children should not be given aspirin.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories are extremely common medications. There are a large number of them, each of which is slightly different. If you have further questions about the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, or the potential risks and side effects, have a talk with your doctor or pharmacist. These medications can be safe under most circumstances, but as is the case with most therapies, it is important to obtain professional advice prior to their use.

Learn more about this author, Erich Rosenberger M.D..
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