NSAIDs: What They Are, How They Work, and When to Use Them

If you’ve ever taken ibuprofen for a headache or naproxen for a sore knee, you’ve already used an NSAID. The term stands for “non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug,” which simply means it reduces inflammation without the steroids found in some other meds.

NSAIDs work by blocking enzymes called COX‑1 and COX‑2. Those enzymes help produce prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain, fever, and swelling. By lowering prostaglandin levels, NSAIDs calm down the body’s inflammatory response and make you feel better fast.

Common NSAIDs You’ll See

Here are the most popular over‑the‑counter (OTC) options:

• Ibuprofen – found in Advil, Motrin; good for mild to moderate pain and fever.
• Naproxen – sold as Aleve; lasts longer, so you can skip a dose or two.
• Aspirin – also an NSAID; often used in low doses to protect the heart.
• Ketoprofen and Diclofenac – usually prescription‑only, stronger for joint pain.

If you need something stronger or a specific formulation (like a gel for topical use), your doctor can prescribe options such as celecoxib (Celebrex) or indomethacin.

Safety Tips & When to Skip

NSAIDs are handy, but they aren’t risk‑free. The most common side effects are stomach upset and heartburn because prostaglandins also protect your gut lining. Taking a NSAID with food or using a coated tablet can help.

More serious concerns involve the kidneys and cardiovascular system. If you have high blood pressure, kidney disease, or a history of heart attacks, talk to a healthcare professional before reaching for that bottle.

Avoid mixing multiple NSAIDs at once – taking ibuprofen and naproxen together doesn’t boost pain relief but does raise risk of bleeding.

Pregnant women in the third trimester should steer clear of NSAIDs because they can affect the baby’s heart and reduce amniotic fluid. Instead, acetaminophen is usually safer under a doctor’s guidance.

If you need long‑term pain control, consider alternatives like:

• Acetaminophen – good for fever and mild pain without anti‑inflammatory effects.
• Physical therapy or exercise – can reduce joint stiffness naturally.
• Topical agents such as capsaicin cream or diclofenac gel – target pain locally with fewer systemic risks.

When you’re unsure whether an NSAID is right for you, a quick chat with your pharmacist can clear up dosage questions and flag any drug interactions.

Bottom line: NSAIDs are effective, fast‑acting tools for everyday aches, but they work best when you respect the dosage limits, take them with food, and know when to switch to another option. Use them wisely, listen to your body, and keep a healthcare professional in the loop for anything beyond short‑term use.