What are NSAIDs?

Definition: NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are a large class of drugs used to treat arthritis. One of the NSAIDs is usually included in the medication regimen of an arthritis patient. NSAIDs help combat arthritis pain by interfering with the inflammatory process.

The Facts of NSAIDs

There are 3 types of NSAIDs:

Salicylates (both acetylated, such as aspirin and nonacetylated)

Traditional NSAIDs

COX-2 Selective Inhibitors

NSAIDs work by blocking the activity of the enzyme, cyclooxygenase, also known as COX. Research has revealed that there are two forms, known as COX-1 and COX-2. NSAIDs affect both forms. COX-1 is involved in maintaining healthy tissue.

COX-2 is involved in the inflammation pathway. COX-2 Selective Inhibitors became a subset of NSAIDs born of this research.

Traditional NSAIDs include:

Ansaid (Flurbiprofen)

Arthrotec (Diclofenac/Misoprostol)

Cataflam (Diclofenac Potassium)

Clinoril (Sulindac)

Daypro (Oxaprozin)

Dolobid (Diflunisal)

Feldene (Piroxicam)

Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)

Indocin (Indomethacin)

Ketoprofen (Orudis)

Lodine (Etodolac)

Meclomen (Meclofenamate)

Mobic (Meloxicam)

Nalfon (Fenoprofen)

Naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve)

Ponstel (Mefanamic Acid)

Relafen (Nabumetone)

Tolectin (Tolmetin)

Voltaren (Dicolfenac Sodium)

COX-2 Inhibitors include:

Celebrex (Celecoxib)

Vioxx (Rofecoxib)(no longer on market)

Bextra (Valdecoxib)(no longer on market)

In April 2005, The FDA announced actions regarding the marketing of NSAIDs.

FDA Announces Changes For All NSAIDs

Also Known As: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, nonsteroidal pain medications, nonsteroidal pain relievers

Common Misspellings: NSIADs