Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Abstract

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a drug class of prescription and over-the-counter compounds used both as for mild to moderate pain, fever, swelling and inflammation They work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the arachidonic acid pathway to block the production of prostaglandins. They are available for ophthalmic, otic, topical/external, parenteral, oral, and rectal routes of administration. Severe drug-class adverse effects include stroke, myocardial infarction, renal insufficiency, bleeding, and gastrointestinal bleeding.