Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Exploring the Common Landscape of Prescription Medications An In-depth Look
Ibuprofen is a nonselective NSAID that reduces pain, fever, and inflammation. It can be used to treat conditions like headaches, muscle aches, arthritis pain, menstrual cramps, or injuries. Common side effects are nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Risks include gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney problems with long-term use.
Naproxen is also a nonselective NSAID. It treats similar conditions as ibuprofen like arthritis, gout, menstrual cramps, and muscle or joint pain. Potential side effects are nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, and dizziness. Long-term use has been linked to cardiovascular risks.
Aspirin is a unique NSAID because it selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) over COX-2. In lower doses, it is used as an analgesic for minor aches and pains. Higher doses have anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects. Aspirin is also commonly used to prevent secondary cardiovascular events. Risks involve irritation and bleeding in the digestive tract.
Cox-2 inhibitors
Cox-2 inhibitors work by selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which is the main driver of Anti-inflammatory Drugs and pain. This reduces side effects seen with traditional NSAIDs that impact both COX-1 and COX-2. Celecoxib (Celebrex) is a commonly prescribed cox-2 inhibitor for arthritis and other joint disorders. Side effects can include heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, and liver damage. Due to these cardiovascular risks, cox-2 inhibitors require close monitoring by a healthcare provider.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids, also known as steroids or cortisone, are strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive medications. They are very effective for treating many inflammatory conditions. Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid prescribed for arthritis, blood disorders, asthma, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid injected directly into muscles, joints, or skin lesions to reduce swelling caused by inflammation. Possible side effects include weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes, cataracts, weakened bones, and mood changes. Long-term continuous use requires tapering off use under medical guidance.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
DMARDs reduce inflammation and prevent joint damage in autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate is a common DMARD taken weekly as a pill or injection. It treats symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Side effects may include nausea, mouth sores, liver damage, breathing problems, and low blood cell counts. Folic acid supplements are recommended to reduce risks.
Hydroxychloroquine treats symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and certain skin conditions. Potential side effects are headaches, nausea, abdominal upset, and skin rashes.
Sulfasalazine reduces joint pain, swelling and damage from rheumatoid arthritis. Side effects can include gastrointestinal issues, skin rashes, and low sperm count in men.
Biologic DMARDs target specific proteins that promote inflammation. Injectable drugs like Humira (adalimumab), Enbrel (etanercept), and Remicade (infliximab) are often used if traditional DMARDs are ineffective. While very effective, they carry increased risks of infections. Close monitoring by a rheumatologist is crucial with biologic DMARD therapy.
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