Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a group of medications commonly used to treat pain and reduce inflammation. It can also be used to bring down the body temperature during a fever and to relieve headaches, joint or muscle pain/inflammation, gout attacks, toothaches and menstrual pain.
Examples of oral NSAIDs available over the counter include Ibuprofen and Naproxen. Other NSAIDs which require a prescription from the doctor include Diclofenac, Mefenamic Acid, Ketoprofen, Piroxicam, Indomethacin, Celecoxib and Etoricoxib.
Inform your healthcare professional if these side effects do not go away and are bothersome to you.
Serious bleeding may include one or more of the following:
Inform your healthcare professional if:
Unless advised by your doctor, NSAIDs should be used at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible time. Prolonged use without medical supervision should be avoided as this may increase the risk of heart attacks or stroke, kidney problems and stomach ulcers.
Do let your healthcare professional know if you are taking any other herbs, supplements or medications.
This includes the following medications:
Avoid taking excessive amounts of alcohol when taking NSAIDs as this will increase the risk of bleeding in the stomach.
As there are different strengths and dosage forms for these medications, please make sure to take it as recommended on the label. Please check with your healthcare professional if you are unsure.
NSAIDs should be best taken with meals to reduce stomach irritation. Your healthcare professional may also give you an additional medication to protect the stomach. E.g. famotidine, omeprazole.Do not exceed the dose recommended on the label as taking too much NSAIDs over time may cause serious stomach, kidney or heart problems.
NSAIDs can be taken on as needed basis for short term use or regularly for certain conditions as prescribed by the doctor.
If your doctor has prescribed NSAIDs for you to be taken regularly, do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional. If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only the usual dose. Do not double your dose or use extra medication to make up for the missed dose.
Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.
If you experience the following symptoms, your condition may be too serious for self-treatment and you should consult a doctor:
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