What otc meds are nsaids?

When it comes to pain relief, there are a plethora of over-the-counter drugs people can take. Some might pop an Advil, while others reach for Tylenol or maybe Aleve. But when we dig deeper into the world of pain relief medication, it becomes evident that many of these medicines fall under the category of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In this article, we’ll discuss what ‘OTC meds’ are NSAIDs and why you should understand their differences before taking them.

Understanding different types of pain relief

Before diving headfirst into which OTC meds are classified as NSAIDs, let’s first get some baseline knowledge about how they work in general. Pain relievers usually come in one of two forms: acetaminophen or Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID).

  • Acetaminophen
    • Manages mild-to-moderate pain
    • It doesn’t have any effects on inflammation/swelling in body
  • Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID)
    • Helps relieve moderate to intense pains along with inflammation/swelling issues with regards to soreness after working out/injury/surgery.

Let’s dive right into the topic!

What Are NSAIDs?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications help reduce swelling and inflammation quickly after an injury by blocking enzyme Cyclooxygenase(COX). There happens to be two kinds COX enzymes AKA COX-1 & COX-2– COX1 helps maintain stomach integrity whereas COX2 causes inflammation.. The most popularly available and commonly used type is ibuprofen(Advil), but other well-known ones include aspirin(Bayer) naproxen sodium(Aleve)

Wait! How do I Pronounce Naproxen? Do you say it like Nar-rock-sin or Na-prox-sen?

Trust me; I had a similar question at first. The intended pronunciation is na-PROX-en, but feel free to say it however you like.

Some Types of NSAIDs

Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid)

Aspirin is one of the oldest and most accessible over-the-counter medications for pain relief available in today’s world! One can find various forms of aspirins on store shelves easily. It helps reduce soreness/inflammation and works as an anticoagulant to manage clotting issues.

Let’s break out some interesting facts here:

  • Its analgesic property(an ability to relieve pain) made its way into medical use.
  • Bayer Pharmaceuticals named the drug “Aspirin” after combining A from acetyl chloride, SPIR from Spiraea ulmaria(via salicylic acid).
    (Now that was some passive-aggressive branding!)

Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin)

Ibuprofen is another commonly used NSAID medication that people reach for when they are experiencing mild-to-moderate pains relating to any swelling-related issue—but especially menstrual cramps!
Some other fascinating bits of trivia about ibuprofen include:

  1. Prophylactic use lowers the incidence^ of Alzheimer’s disease significantly
  2. An individual trial concluded if given rigorously after surgery, it reduces narcotics usage among patients dealing with post-operative pain

(|”Drug Name”| “Brand Names”| “Indications”|
|———|———-|———–|
|”Naproxen Sodium”| “Aleve”,naprosyn | Used mostly for symptoms-management due to arthritis |
|”Diclofenac sodium/ potassium “|volteran | Usage usually found in conditions like osteoarthritis/rheumatoid arthritis along with also providing flexibility-during stiffness caused by these conditions|

Naproxen Sodium (Aleve)

One of the prominent features of naproxen sodium as an NSAID is it’s lasting power–its effects last 8-12 hours longer than some other over-the-counter medications. Therefore, this product can take care of mild-to-moderate pain for a longer time period without re-dosing.

“Drug Name” “Brand Names” “Indications”
“Ibuprofen” Advil/Motrin Best suited for alleviating headache/muscle pain post-workout/sport injury

Are NSAIDs Suitable For Everyone?

Now to get into the data-heavy stuff — Yes, your medication must suit you too! Every individual responds differently to these kinds of drugs so; not everyone ought to consume them just because their friends/prominent athletes use such medicines.
Ask for administrative approval if one happens to be pregnant(especially in first or third trimester) have had ulcers before, blood thinner issues before trying any OTC products off the shelves!

But What are Some Typical Pros and Cons Worth Noting Regarding Nsaids?

Pros

  • The most significant advantage associated with using NSAIDs is they’re commonly and widely available. Easy access means that people looking for fast relief from moderate swelling/ pain/inflammation can usually find something at any local drugstore
  • Also rapid relieving properties with very minimal dependency problems(interactions)
  • Alleviates fever when taken within limits(too much causes liver damage!)

Cons

Or side-effects — Like everything else under the sun in our world…. There will always be cons to a pro:

  1. High doses would increase blood pressure
  2. They might cause stomach bleeding & intestinal problems
  3. Drug interaction risks increasing^ fatal outcomes

However! These factors only come into play once individuals move away from recommended/standard dosages to relieve themselves.

Conclusion

All in all, after reading this piece and putting things into perspective; it becomes quite clear that nsaids might help in some circumstances but not necessarily for everyone. Therefore before gobbling up any medication, do perform your due diligence or consult your doctor without making a quick call on self-diagnosing yourself with huge amounts of pills ordered online!

Random Posts