Three most common NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

The three most common NSAIDs that we see in our clinic are aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. NSAIDs, or Non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs, can be very useful for helping with short term injuries. Essentially, as the name implies, NSAIDs reduce inflammation in the body. With injuries, the body’s natural reaction is flood the injured tissue with blood flow and nutrients in order to heal the damaged tissue. While this bodily process is necessary to heal the tissue, the body can often be overzealous and cause too much inflammation, which is subsequently interpreted by the brain as pain. Hence why, short term use of NSAIDs are effective in decreasing inflammation and ultimately pain. However, there can be severe side effects associated with long term NSAID usage. Ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney failure, and increased blood pressure, just to name a few. There are more natural forms of anti-inflammatory, such as bromelain, which will be discussed next week. If your doctor has prescribed an anti-inflammatory medication, do not stop taking them without consulting your doctor first.