What are NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs?
Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory Drugs or popularly known as NSAIDs are the most preferred medications recommended to treat inflammatory and painful conditions like arthritis and other pain disorders. Aspirin and ibuprofen are one of the most common NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs which an individual can get even over the counter. NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs not only provide pain relief but also helps in reducing inflammation and decrease fevers.
What are some of the Best NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs for Pain Relief?
NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs come in different dosages and formulas. Some type of NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs may work better than others but the mechanism of their function remains the same.
The usual method of taking NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs is with food or milk. While on NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs, it is recommended to avoid alcohol to prevent any reaction.
Some of the best NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs usually prescribed for pain relief and as an antiinflammatory are:
- Aspirin which comes under different brand names like Bayer and Ecotrin
- Ibuprofen which comes under brand names like Advil and Motrin
- Naproxen which comes under the brand names like Aleve, Anaprox and Naprosyn
- Celecoxib which comes under the brand name Celebrex
Additionally, there are other forms of NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs which are used either as an injection or as a gel. These types of NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs are:
Ketorolac which can be given as an intravenous or intramuscular injection, especially useful after a surgery when the patient is NPO and is not able to eat anything by mouth Diclofenac is a type of NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drug that is used mostly as a gel or a patch. It can be obtained under the brand names of Voltaren or Flector patch. This is applied directly on the area of the pain for pain relief. Topical forms of NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs reduce any chances of any gastrointestinal side effects that are known with chronic use of NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs.
How Do NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs Work?
The working mechanism of NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs involves preventin an enzyme called cyclooxygenase or COX from performing its function. This enzyme has two forms which are COX-I and COX-II. The COX-I enzyme protects the lining of the stomach from acids and other digestive chemicals and also maintains normal functioning of the kidneys. COX-II enzymes are produced as a result of an injury or inflammation of the joints.
Also Read: