How traditional NSAIDs work on arthritis:
NSAIDS or Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatories work by blocking the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are substances similar to hormones but they are responsible for pain and inflammation. Prostaglandin has an additional function of protecting the stomach lining and it also maintains a normally functioning kidney. When NSAIDs block prostaglandin, the person is relieved from pain and inflammation but he/she could suffer from upset stomach, ulcers and imroper kidney function. Additional research found out that NSAIDs also block an enzyme known as Cyclooxygenase or COX. Cyclooxygenase exists in two forms, COX-1 which also plays a role in the maintennance of healthy tissues and COX-2 which plays a major role in pain and inflammation. NSAIDs block both COX-1 and COX-2 which can lead to ulceration of the stomach.
Side Effects and Precautions of Traditional NSAIDs:
Take extra precaution of you are pregnant or if you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease or ulcers. It is best to take NSAIDs with food or with a glass of milk. Prolonged use of traditional NSAIDs can lead to ulcers and stomach bleeding.
Forms, Dosage and Brand Names of Tradional NSAIDs:
The following list are generic names and brand names of common traditional NSAIDs on the market.
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).
Adults: Diclofenac - 75 mg to 100 mg per day. Naproxene - 275 or 550 mg two times a day.
Pregnant Women: It is not recommended to take NSAIDs when you are pregnant because of higher incidence of miscarriage.
Children: Consult your doctor for proper dosing.
References about Tradional NSAIDs and Arthritis:
Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Omudhome Ogbru, Pharm.D., Jay W. Marks, M.D., MedicineNet, 9/18/2005;
Questions and Answers: FDA Regulatory Actions for the COX-2 Selective and Non-Selective Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), FDA/Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, April 7, 2005
Page last updated: May 02, 2009
