Anti Inflammatories Non Steroidal

Who can take NSAIDs?

Source: NHS

In this topic (8)

Most people can take NSAIDs, but some people need to be careful about taking them.

It's a good idea to ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice before taking an NSAID if you:

  • are over 65 years of age
  • are pregnant or trying for a baby
  • are breastfeeding
  • have asthma
  • have had an allergic reaction to NSAIDs in the past
  • have had stomach ulcers in the past
  • have any problems with your heart, liver, kidneys, blood pressure, circulation,or bowels
  • are taking other medications see interactions with other medicines
  • are looking for medication fora child under 16 any medication that contains aspirin should not be given to children under 16

NSAIDs might not necessarily need to be avoided in these cases, but they should only be used on the advice of a healthcare professionalas there may be a higher risk of side effects.

If NSAIDs aren't suitable, your pharmacist or doctor may suggest alternatives to NSAIDs , such as paracetamol .

Articles for Anti Inflammatories Non Steroidal

Alternatives to NSAIDs

As NSAIDs can cause troublesome side effects, alternatives are often recommended first. The main alternative for pain relief is paracetamol , which is available over the counter and is safe for most

Food and alcohol

The leaflet that comes with your medicine should say whether you need to avoid any particular foods or drinks. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure. For information about a specificmedici

Interactions with other medicines

Some NSAIDs can react unpredictably with other medications. This can affect how well either medicineworks and increase the risk of side effects. It's particularly important to getmedical advice befor

Introduction

Read about non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), a widely used medicine for relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and bringing down a high temperature (fever).

Overdoses of NSAIDs

Taking too much of an NSAID can be dangerous. This is known as taking an overdose. Contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice immediately if you take too much of your medicine and you experience problems

Side effects of NSAIDs

Like all medications, there's a risk of side effects from NSAIDs. These tend to bemore common if you're taking high doses for a long time, or you're elderly or in poor general health. Over-the-counter

Types of NSAIDs

NSAIDs are available as tablets, capsules, suppositories (capsules inserted into the bottom), creams, gels and injections. Some can be bought over the counter from pharmacies,while othersneed a prescr

Who can take NSAIDs?

Most people can take NSAIDs, but some people need to be careful about taking them. It's a good idea to ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice before taking an NSAID if you: are over 65 years of age