Pain, swelling, and stiffness are annoying — and anti-inflammatories are often the fastest way to feel better. This page explains the main types, real risks, and quick rules you can use right now to reduce harm while getting relief.
Over-the-counter options: ibuprofen and naproxen are the common OTC choices. They block the enzymes that cause pain and swelling, and they work fast for muscle pain, headaches, and minor injuries.
Prescription NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors: drugs like diclofenac or etoricoxib are stronger and often used for chronic joint pain. Read our deeper look at etoricoxib here: Etoricoxib as a Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Short-term powerful options: ketorolac (Toradol) is used in hospitals for severe pain. It gives strong relief but raises risk for bleeding and kidney strain; see the story about player lawsuits and Toradol risks here: Former NFL Players Sue Over Toradol Use.
Corticosteroids: these are different from NSAIDs. They’re prescribed for more serious inflammation (like asthma flares or autoimmune problems) and need medical supervision.
1) Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. If pain eases in a few days, stop the drug. Long-term use raises the chance of stomach bleeding and kidney or heart problems.
2) Take with food or milk to cut stomach upset. Don’t mix NSAIDs with alcohol — that increases bleeding risk.
3) Watch for red flags: black or bloody stools, severe belly pain, sudden shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, or very low urine output. Call a doctor right away if any of those happen.
4) Check interactions: NSAIDs can raise blood pressure and reduce how well some blood pressure medicines work. They can also interact with blood thinners, SSRIs, lithium, and some heart drugs. Ask a pharmacist if you take any regular meds.
5) Kidney and heart caution: if you have chronic kidney disease, heart failure, or recent heart surgery, avoid routine NSAID use unless your doctor says it’s OK.
Want non-drug options? Try targeted ice for 10–15 minutes, rest the joint, compression, gentle movement once pain eases, and simple weight control. Diet choices like extra oily fish, nuts, and olive oil can help some people feel better long term, but they don’t replace medicines when you need quick relief.
If pain is severe, suddenly worse, or lasts more than a week despite treatment, see your doctor. Use medicines smartly and they’ll do their job without causing bigger problems.
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