Do you also have the habit of going to the pharmacy and asking for a painkiller when you have a headache, a toothache, or menstrual cramps? NSAIDs are the type of medicine that many of us take at times like these. These not only help with pain, but also help reduce swelling and fever in the body. But how much do we really know about them? Let's talk about this in a little more detail today.
Let's first see, what are these NSAID's?
Simply put, NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are a group of medications that reduce pain, swelling, and fever . Your doctor may have prescribed them for you, or you may have picked them up over-the-counter from a pharmacy. They come in a variety of forms.
- In the form of tablets or capsules
- As a liquid
- In the form of gels or creams applied to the skin
- Sometimes as rectal suppositories
What are the most common types of NSAIDs in Sri Lanka?
Some of these medications can be purchased without a prescription, while others can only be purchased with a doctor's prescription. Let's take a look at both types.
| Non-prescription medications | Types of prescriptions prescribed by a doctor |
|---|---|
| Aspirin (e.g. Disprin®) | Celecoxib (e.g. Celebrex®) |
| Ibuprofen (e.g. Brufen®, Ibugin®) | Diclofenac (e.g. Voltaren®, Diclac®) |
| Naproxen Sodium (e.g. Naprosyn®) | Indomethacin (e.g. Indocin®) |
| Mefenamic Acid (e.g. Ponstan®) | Ketorolac (e.g. Toradol®) |
What are NSAIDs used for?
These medications are used to treat a wide range of common medical conditions. For example:
- Muscle aches
- Arthritis
- Tendonitis
- Back pain
- Toothache
- Menstrual cramps
- Headache
How does this medicine work?
It's very simple. These medications stop the production of certain chemicals (prostaglandins) in our body that cause pain and swelling. This reduces the pain, swelling, and stiffness we feel.
How long can this medicine be used?
This is a very important question. Even if you buy an NSAID over the counter from a pharmacy, don't use it for more than 10 days at a time for pain or for more than 3 days for fever without first checking with your doctor. These are great for short-term pain relief, but long-term use can be dangerous.
If your doctor recommends taking this medication for a long time, be aware of side effects such as stomach upset and stomach cramps. If you experience any of these, tell your doctor immediately.
Who should be careful when using NSAIDs?
These medications are not suitable for everyone. They can be dangerous for people with certain medical conditions. If you have any of the following conditions, be sure to talk to your doctor before using NSAIDs.
| Situations where NSAID use may be inappropriate | |
|---|---|
| If you have the following medical conditions: |
|
| The following people should be especially careful: |
|
What are the most common side effects?
The risk of side effects increases when NSAIDs are taken in high doses or for long periods of time. Some are minor, but others can be serious.
Most importantly: Do not take two NSAIDs at the same time or more than the recommended dose without your doctor's advice.
The most common gastrointestinal problems:
- Gas/Bloating
- Heartburn
- Stomach ache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
The best way to reduce these stomach problems is to take the pill with a meal or a glass of milk. But if these symptoms persist for more than a few days, tell your doctor.
Warning signs that require immediate medical attention!
If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking the NSAID and see your doctor immediately. In some cases, you may need to go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
| Warning signs - be aware of these! | |
|---|---|
| Gastrointestinal/urinary system related |
|
| Allergies and other serious symptoms |
|
Is Tylenol (Acetaminophen) also an NSAID?
No. This is a place where many people get confused. In Sri Lanka, we commonly know this medicine as Panadol®, which is `(Acetaminophen)`. Although it reduces pain and fever, it does not reduce swelling. Therefore, it does not belong to the NSAID group. For someone with an upset stomach, `(Acetaminophen)` may be a better option than an NSAID. But it is best to ask your doctor before taking anything.
Take-Home Message
- NSAIDs are a type of medication that reduces pain, swelling, and fever. But they are not suitable for everyone.
- Always use the lowest possible dose, for the shortest possible time.
- Do not use these for several days in a row without consulting a doctor.
- Always take this medicine with a meal to reduce stomach upset.
- If you have other medical conditions, such as kidney, liver, heart disease, or gastritis, be sure to ask your doctor before taking NSAIDs.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious side effects, such as black stools, severe stomach cramps, or difficulty breathing.
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