NSAIDs

About

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medicines that are widely used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and bring down a high temperature. They're often used to relieve symptoms of: headaches painful periods sprains and strains colds and flu coronavirus (COVID-19) conditions such as arthritis that can cause long-term pain Although NSAIDs are commonly used, they're not suitable for everyone and can sometimes cause side effects. This information is a general overview of NSAIDs. For information about a specific medicine, you can look up your medicine in the Medicines A to Z. NSAIDs are available as tablets, capsules, suppositories (capsules inserted into the bottom), creams, gels and injections. Some can be bought over the counter from pharmacies, while others need a prescription. The main types of NSAIDs include: ibuprofen naproxen diclofenac celecoxib mefenamic acid etoricoxib indomethacin aspirin for pain relief (low-dose aspirin is not normally considered to be an NSAID) NSAIDs may be sold or prescribed under these names or a brand name. They're all similarly effective, although you may find a particular one works best for you. Most people can take NSAIDs, but some people need to be careful about taking them. It's a good idea to ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice before taking an NSAID if you: are over 65 years of age are pregnant or trying for a baby are breastfeeding have asthma have had an allergic reaction to NSAIDs in the past have had stomach ulcers in the past have any problems with your heart, liver, kidneys, blood pressure, circulation or bowels are taking other medicines are looking for medicine for a child under 16 (do not give any medicine that contains aspirin to children under 16) NSAIDs might not necessarily need to be avoided in these cases, but they should only be used on the advice of a healthcare professional as there may be a higher risk of side effects. If NSAIDs are not suitable, your pharmacist or doctor may suggest alterna