Non-steroidal anti-infammatory drugs
(NSAIDs)
NSAIDs include ibuprofen and
diclofenac, which are available
from many shops and are relatively
inexpensive to buy. Some NSAIDs
are available on prescription only,
for example, naproxen and celecoxib.
They are available orally and as
NSAID gels for mild-to-moderate
musculo-skeletal pain. They act
by blocking the prostaglandins
responsible for some of the
inflammatory response to tissue
damage (Bond and Simpson, 2006).
Systematic reviews of randomised
controlled trials of NSAIDs have
found them to be effective for mild-
to-moderate pain associated with
dysmenorrhea, joint and muscle pain,
post-surgical pain, toothache, etc.
They can reduce swelling and pain at
site and improve mobility (McQuay
and Moore, 1998). Some patients find
that one NSAID is more effective
than others (Bond and Simpson,
2006).
There are a number of contra-
indications and drug interactions
associated with NSAIDs (Table 1).
They should be taken for as short a
period of time as possible to prevent
complications. Peptic irritation, ulcers
and bleeding are associated with their
use and the risk increases with longer
duration and the age of the patient.