NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are used to relieve many of the symptoms of arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, and other inflammatory conditions. Such symptoms include the following: inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. These medications are also used to treat non-inflammatory pain. Some of these medications such as ibuprofen (motrin or advil) are available over the counter in non-prescription strength. There is an evergrowing number of these medications on the market, the following is only a partial listing:

Celebrex (Celecoxib) 100-200mg 1-2 times daily
Mobic (Meloxicam) 7.5-15mg daily
Trilisate (choline magnesium salicylate) 750-1500mg 2-3 times daily
Salsalate or Disalcid (salicyl salicylate) 1500mg twice daily
Dolobid (diflusinal) 250-750mg 2-3 times daily
Motrin/Advil (ibuprofen) 2-4 times daily (maximum 3200mg/d)
Naprosyn or Anaprox (naproxen) 250/275mg or 500/550mg twice daily Naprelan (naproxen) 375-500mg once daily
Orudis or Oruvail (ketoprofen) 25-50mg 2-3 times daily or 100,150, or 200 once daily
Nalfon (fenoprofen) 200,300, or 600mg 3-4 times daily (maximum 3200mg/d)
Ansaid (flurbiprofen) 25-50mg up to 6 times daily (maximum 300mg/d)
Daypro (oxaprozin) 1200mg once daily
Indocin (indomethacin) 25-50mg 2-3 times daily
Clinoril (sulindac) 100-200mg twice daily
Relafen (nabumetone) 1000-1500mg once daily
Tolectin (tolmetin) 200, 400, 600mg 3 times daily (maximum 1800mg/d)
Lodine (etodolac) 200, 300, 400 mg 3 times daily (maximum 1000mg/d)
Cataflam or Voltaren (diclofenac) 50mg 3 times daily to 100mg of extended release daily
Feldene (piroxicam) 10-20mg daily

How is it taken?

Most of these medications are available in tablet form. Some (ibuprofen) are available in a liquid form, and still others (ketoprofen) can be made into a topical gel formulation. We will try to pick a medication in this class that is the safest for you and the easiest to take.

What are the side effects?

The most common side effects are skin rash and stomach irritation (bloating, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, indigestion, pain, or cramps). Bleeding from the stomach or intestines is much less common with the new COX II inhibitors (Celebrex), but still can occur. Dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, diarrhea, palpitations, swelling, hearing problems, high blood pressure, vision problems, and seizures are also possible. There is a lot of recent information regarding heart related problems and the use of anti-inflammatory medications. Before taking any type of anti-inflammatory drug, consult your physician about your risks. If you should develop any significant problems or side effects, stop the medication and call us the following business day to let us know.

If the side effects are severe, contact us immediately or go to the nearest emergency room for an evaluation.

Safety Precautions

• Note that taking the medication with food can minimize the nausea and many of the other side effects.
• Please let us know if you have asthma or are allergic to aspirin or other NSAIDs.
• Please let us know if you are pregnant, intend to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

Should you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Phone: (503) 885-8008