How traditional NSAIDs work on arthritis:

NSAIDs does its job by blocking the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormone like substances that are responsible for pain and inflammation. However, prostaglandins also protect the linings of the stomach and helps in maintaining normal kidney function. By blocking the prostaglandins, the patient can be relieved from pain and inflammation but it could also lead to upset stomach, stomach ulcers or improper kidney function. According to researchers NSAIDs block an enzyme known as Cyclooxygenase or COX. There are two forms of COX, COX-1 which is involved in the maintenance of healthy tissues and COX-2 which is mainly responsible for pain and inflammation. The problem with traditional NSAIDs is that they block both COX-1 and COX-2 that is why drug manufacturers developed the so called COX-2 inhibitors in order to lessen the incidence of ulcers and impaired kidney function.

Side Effects and Precautions of Traditional NSAIDs:

Take extra precaution of you are pregnant or if you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease or ulcers. It is best to take NSAIDs with food or with a glass of milk. Prolonged use of traditional NSAIDs can lead to ulcers and stomach bleeding.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names of Tradional NSAIDs:

The following list are generic names and brand names of common traditional NSAIDs on the market.

Ansaid (Flurbiprofen), Arthrotec (Diclofenac/Misoprostol), Cataflam (Diclofenac Potassium), Clinoril (Sulindac)
Daypro (Oxaprozin), Dolobid (Diflunisal), Feldene (Piroxicam), Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil),
Indocin (Indomethacin), Ketoprofen (Orudis), Lodine (Etodolac), Meclomen (Meclofenamate), Mobic (Meloxicam), Nalfon (Fenoprofen), Naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve), Ponstel (Mefanamic Acid), Relafen (Nabumetone), Tolectin (Tolmetin), Voltaren (Dicolfenac Sodium).

Adults: Diclofenac - 75 mg to 100 mg per day. Naproxene - 275 or 550 mg two times a day.

Pregnant Women: It is not recommended to take NSAIDs when you are pregnant because of higher incidence of miscarriage.

Children: Consult your doctor for proper dosing.

References about Tradional NSAIDs and Arthritis:

Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Omudhome Ogbru, Pharm.D., Jay W. Marks, M.D., MedicineNet, 9/18/2005;

Questions and Answers: FDA Regulatory Actions for the COX-2 Selective and Non-Selective Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), FDA/Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, April 7, 2005

Page last updated: May 02, 2008