User:Mr. Ibrahem/Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of medication primarily used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. Aspirin may also be used to prevent heart attacks or stroke. They may be taken by mouth, by injection, applied to the skin, or used as a suppository. They may be used with paracetamol (acetaminophen). In those at risk of stomach issues, they may be taken with a proton pump inhibitor.

Side effects may include stomach ulcers, heart attack, high blood pressure, and kidney disease. Other side effects may include asthma attacks and hives. They should not be taken during the last 3 months of pregnancy. There are two types non-selective and COX-2 selective. While COX-2 selective agents may have a lower risk of stomach irritation they have a higher risk of heart attacks. They work by inhibiting the activity of cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 or COX-2).

The first NSAID was aspirin, which came into commercial use in 1899, though was used prior in the form of willow bark. This was followed by ibuprofen in the 1960s and naproxen in the 1970s. Many are available as generic medication and are not very expensive. Some can also be purchased over the counter (OTC). Paracetamol is not considered an NSAID.