Osteoarthritis Health Center
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) and Arthritis
NSAIDS -- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs -- are a type of pain reliever. These drugs also reduce inflammation. Inflammation is the body's response to irritation or injury and is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. NSAIDs are used to treat a variety of conditions that cause inflammation, including arthritis and tendinitis. NSAIDs are also used to treat pain from injury or other causes of long-term pain.
Over-the-Counter Anti-inflammatory Drugs
NSAIDs that can be purchased over-the-counter include:
| BRAND NAME | GENERIC NAME |
| Advil, Nuprin, Motrin | ibuprofen |
| Aleve | naproxen sodium |
| Ascriptin, Bayer, Ecotrin | aspirin |
Prescription Anti-inflammatory Drugs
The following NSAIDs can only be gotten with a doctor's prescription:
| BRAND NAME | GENERIC NAME |
| Anaprox | naproxen sodium |
| Celebrex* | celecoxib |
| Clinoril | sulindac |
| Daypro | oxaprozin |
| Disalcid | salsalate |
| Feldene | piroxicam |
| Indocin | indomethacin |
| Lodine | etodolac |
| Mobic | meloxicam |
| Naprelan | naproxen sodium |
| Naprosyn | naproxen |
| Orudis | ketoprofen |
| Relafen | nabumetone |
| Toradol | ketorolac tromethamine |
* The Cox-2 inhibitor Celebrex is a newer form of NSAID that also relieves inflammation. It is less likely to result in unwanted side effects that can occur with older types of NSAIDs, especially stomach bleeding. While Celebrex is generally safer in this regard, there is still some risk to the stomach.
Celebrex and all NSAIDs must carry a warning on the label that users may face an increased risk of cardiovascular side effects, such as heart attack, as well as gastrointestinal bleeding.
How Do NSAIDs Work?
NSAIDs work by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.
Do All NSAIDs Work the Same Way?
There appears to be no fundamental difference in the ability of different NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation. However, you might find that you get more relief from one NSAID over another and some NSAIDs may have fewer side effects than others. Some NSAIDs also may be more convenient for people, since they only need be taken once or twice a day.
WebMD Medical Reference
Osteoarthritis Guide
