Anti Inflammatory Drugs

Anti-inflammatory drugs refer to a substance or a medication that relieves redness, swelling, and pain because of an inflammation. Also known as anti-inflammatories, it consists of properties that prevents excess cyclo-oxygenase (COX). COX is a type of enzyme that helps to make prostaglandins which trigger swelling, soreness, and other discomforts in the body. A decrease in prostaglandin means lesser pain.

Essentially, anti-inflammatories are painkillers. They are used to treat headache, menstrual cramp, sprain, strain, arthritis, flu, and cold. Aside from these, it is also the best medicine for individuals experiencing long-term pain due to other conditions. Anti-inflammatories can be taken as capsules, tablets, creams, gels, injections, and suppositories.

Although most people are permitted to take anti-inflammatory drugs, some may need the advice of a medical practitioner or a pharmacist. Specifically, those who are over 65 years old, pregnant or breastfeeding, and alcoholic. Others who need a consultation before undergoing anti-inflammatory treatment are people with asthma, stomach ulcers and other diseases related to the heart, liver, and kidneys. There are higher risks of side effects from anti-inflammatories if given without a doctor’s prescription.

Some of the common side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs are heartburn, stomach ulcers, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, ringing in the ears, high blood pressure, and dizziness. It is important to remember to never be under medication with over-the-counter anti-inflammatories for more than ten days without the knowledge of your physician. Anti-inflammatory medicines are intended for short-term use only. Usually, they are taken once or twice a day, depending on the prescribed dosage.