NSAIDs: What They Are and How to Use Them Safely

NSAIDs are the most widely used drugs for pain, fever and inflammation. You probably know ibuprofen and naproxen; aspirin and diclofenac are also common. They work by blocking COX enzymes to lower prostaglandin production, which cuts pain and swelling. That explains why a short course helps sprains, headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, and arthritis flares.

Common NSAIDs and Uses

OTC options include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve); low-dose aspirin is used for heart disease prevention in some people. Prescription NSAIDs like diclofenac, celecoxib, or indomethacin are for stronger or long-term needs. Dosing varies: follow product labels or your doctor's directions and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.

Safety Tips & Side Effects

NSAIDs are safe for many people but not risk-free. Common side effects include stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, and dizziness. More serious risks are gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and higher cardiovascular risk with long-term use or with some drugs. Avoid mixing NSAIDs with blood thinners like warfarin unless your doctor approves; doing both raises bleeding risk. Also be cautious with ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and some antidepressants due to kidney and bleeding interactions. If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or a history of ulcers, talk to a doctor before using NSAIDs regularly.

Take NSAIDs with food or milk to cut stomach upset and avoid alcohol while using them. Use the smallest dose that controls pain, and stop when symptoms improve—long-term use needs medical follow-up. For chronic pain, consider alternatives like acetaminophen, topical NSAIDs, physical therapy, or exercise programs. Topical gels often give pain relief with fewer systemic side effects for localized problems such as knee or shoulder pain.

Call your doctor if you notice black stools, severe belly pain, swelling in the legs, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or sudden confusion. Also seek care for persistent high fever, worsening pain despite correct dosing, or signs of allergic reaction like rash and swelling of the face.

If you take other meds, make a medication list to show your clinician so they can pick the safest option. Pregnant people should avoid NSAIDs in the third trimester; breastfeeding people should check with their provider. Short courses for acute pain are usually fine for healthy adults; long-term therapy needs monitoring. When in doubt, call your pharmacist for quick advice on dosing and interactions.

Older adults should be especially careful: age raises the risk of stomach bleeding and kidney issues when using NSAIDs. If you need NSAIDs often, your doctor may order blood pressure checks, kidney function tests, and discuss heart risks. Switching between different NSAIDs doesn't reduce risk; each drug carries similar potential harms, though individual tolerability varies. Use caution with over-the-counter combinations that mix NSAIDs with other pain drugs; read labels to avoid accidental overdose. If a particular NSAID causes heartburn or stomach pain, ask about a stomach-protecting drug like a proton pump inhibitor.

Pharmacies and many clinics offer quick advice if you're unsure which NSAID to pick for short-term pain. Safe use means lowest dose, short time, and checking interactions. Ask when unsure.