Understanding Nonsteroidal Anti inflammatory Drugs NSAIDs: Types, Uses, Side Effects, and Safety Guidelines

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs NSDs are a class of widely-used medications, designed to alleviate pn, reduce inflammation, and manage fever symptoms. This includes:

Headaches,

Pn during menstruation,

Sprns and strns,

Common colds and flu episodes,

Symptoms associated with long-term conditions such as arthritis.

While NSDs are commonly utilized, they're not suitable for everyone and can sometimes cause side effects.

This guide offers an overview of the most common types of NSDs. Each comes in various forms like pills, capsules, suppositories which require insertion into the anus, creams, gels, and injections.

You might find them avlable over-the-counter at pharmacies or need a prescription from your healthcare provider.

The mn types include:

Ibuprofen,

Naproxen,

Diclofenac,

Celecoxib,

Mefenamic acid,

Etoricoxib,

Indomethacin,

Aspirin for pn relief though aspirin is not typically classified as an NSD

These medicines might be sold under brand names or the generic ones listed above.

It's essential to that all are similarly effective, though some individuals may find certn medications more beneficial based on their experiences.

Who can take NSDs?

Most people can safely use NSDs. However, it's recommed to consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider before using an NSD if you:

Are over 65 years old,

Are pregnant or trying for pregnancy,

Are breastfeeding,

Have asthma,

Previously experienced allergic reactions to NSDs,

Have had stomach ulcers in the past,

Suffer from heart, liver, kidney issues or have blood pressure problems,

Consume other medications,

Seeking medicines for children under 16 years of age do not give any medicine contning aspirin to children below 16 due to risk.

NSDs might need to be avoided or used with caution in certn circumstances despite the possibility that they may cause fewer side effects compared to stronger prescription drugs.

Potential side effects include:

Indigestion – characterized by stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea,

Stomach ulcers – which could lead to internal bleeding and anemia; additional medication might be prescribed to minimize stomach irritation,

Alcohol consumption should usually be avoided when taking NSDs as it can irritate the stomach.

The leaflet that accompanies your medicine should specify if you need to avoid any particular foods or drinks. Consult a pharmacist, doctor, or refer to GOV.UK for more information on specific medicines.

In general, no food restrictions are typically necessary while taking NSDs; pillscapsules usually require swallowing whole with water or food.

Alcohol consumption is generally safe when using NSDs, but excessive alcohol intake may irritate your stomach.

What should you do in case of an overdose?

Taking more than the recommed dosage an overdose of an NSD can be dangerous. Seek advice immediately from your GP or call NHS 111 if this occurs.

In serious cases where symptoms like seizures, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness manifest, dial 999 for immediate medical assistance.

Alternative to NSDs

NSDs' side effects could prompt alternative therapies first.

Paracetamol is often suggested as an alternative for pn relief and can be purchased over the counterit's typically safe for most individuals.

Topical creams or gels that are applied directly onto the skin might help with muscle or joint pn, as they t to have fewer side effects than oral forms of these medications.

Your doctor may recomm various medicines or therapies deping on your specific health condition.

For instance, physiotherapy could be beneficial for people experiencing muscle or joint pn.

This content has been reviewed and updated every two years since October 2022.

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