What are Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?
NSAIDs are a group of medications that reduce inflammation, pain, and fever. Traditional NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and other branded medications. Celecoxib (brand name Celebrex) is the newest addition to the NSAID family, acting as a selective COX-2 inhibitor. NSAIDs work through a different mechanism than steroids to reduce inflammation and pain.
What is the difference between traditional NSAIDs and celecoxib?
Celecoxib is an NSAID that acts as a selective COX-2 inhibitor and reduces pain and inflammation. However, it is not more effective than traditional NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Selective COX-2 inhibitors are somewhat less likely than traditional NSAIDs to cause stomach problems such as ulcers and bleeding, but both have similar risks regarding side effects such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, and fluid retention. Additionally, celecoxib – like many selective NSAID pain relievers – has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks, according to some major clinical trials.
What is the purpose of taking these types of medications?
NSAIDs are taken to relieve pain and reduce inflammation and fever. For temporary conditions such as sprains, strains, and back pain irritation, over-the-counter NSAIDs may be sufficient. For chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or lupus, these medications should generally be prescribed by a doctor with specified doses, and they may be prescribed for long-term use.
Are these medications safe?
Risks of all NSAIDs include – but are not limited to – stomach problems such as bleeding and ulcers, high blood pressure, fluid retention, as well as heart and kidney problems, and skin rash.
Is one NSAID better than another?
There is no clear difference in the overall safety profile of the various traditional NSAIDs available on the market, although there may be differences in side effects for some individual drugs. Some studies have found naproxen to be safer for the cardiovascular system. Celecoxib causes fewer intestinal problems than traditional NSAIDs, but it has been associated with a possible increased risk of heart problems, especially at doses higher than 200 mg per day.
Who should not take NSAIDs?
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Patients with asthma that worsens when taking aspirin.
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Patients who have recently had a stomach or small intestine ulcer.
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Patients with kidney or liver disease should use the medication with caution.
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Patients with severe congestive heart failure.
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Patients who have recently had heart attacks, strokes, or chest pain related to heart disease should avoid such NSAIDs.
Do I need regular blood tests when taking NSAIDs?
You do not need regular blood tests when taking NSAIDs.
Is it safe to take NSAIDs during pregnancy?
Some NSAIDs can be used safely to treat arthritis in the first and second trimesters (the first six months of pregnancy). However, NSAIDs should generally not be used in the third trimester (the last three months of pregnancy).
