Finding The Right NSAIDs For Each Kind Of Pain

Pain can happen for a variety of reasons. From overuse injuries related to exercise or strenuous work to stress headaches and migraines, many people reach for over-the-counter (OTC) medications to alleviate associated symptoms. Formally known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), these medicines can provide quick relief. While some options are designed for temporary use, other versions can be used routinely to manage long-term conditions like arthritis pain. Here’s what consumers need to know to match the correct NSAID with the type of discomfort that’s occurring.

Acetylated salicylates

While a wide range of NSAIDs exist, the options come in a variety of strengths, and only a select few classes are available without a prescription. Acetylated salicylates are a very common non-prescription strength OTC option that most people will find at the local pharmacy. This version is available in tablet or capsule form as well as topical variants like liquid, gel, cream, and even suppositories. In most cases, acetylated salicylates are best reserved for common pain such as headaches, sprains, muscle aches, controlling inflammation, migraines, and fever.

Non-acetylated salicylates and enolic acids

Non-acetylated salicylates and enolic acids are similar to acetylated salicylates but are usually reserved for prescription medications only because of the risk of drug interactions and side effects. The drug classes treat common symptoms associated with arthritis, such as pain, joint stiffness, and swelling, with enolic acids specifically helping children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. However, non-acetylated salicylates are known to have side effects, with most physicians and pharmacists warning patients not to consume non-acetylated salicylates on an empty stomach or to stay in an upright position for at least 10 minutes after taking an oral dose.

Propionic acids

One of the other more common forms of OTC NSAIDs is propionic acids. While the medication can also be found in more powerful dosages that are only available with a prescription, this option is readily available at local pharmacies in OTC-safe dosages. Propionic acids are best suited for controlling inflammation and joint stiffness. As a result, consumers may be most familiar with seeing this drug class recommended for all-day pain relief for arthritis sufferers.

Acetic acids

Acetic acids are similar to acetylated salicylates but are only available with a prescription. Typically, this medication is reserved for pain management associated either with soft-tissue injuries or osteoarthritis. The drug can be prescribed as an oral pill or for topical application. Oral versions are usually available either as a delayed-release or extended-release option, with strengths ranging from as low as 25mg to as much as 100mg for extended-release.

Anthranilic acids

Anthranilic acids are another prescription-only pain reliever designed to manage a host of symptoms. Often, the primary conditions are arthritis-related, including gout, but the medication can also be given to reduce fever and manage menstrual pain. In most cases, this NSAID class won’t be prescribed to people under the age of 18 since not enough research exists to determine safety and efficacy.

Selective COX-2 inhibitors

Selective COX-2 inhibitors are almost exclusively prescribed to manage symptoms associated with a variety of arthritis conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. The oral medication is usually taken twice daily but can sometimes also be given to people who have been diagnosed with colorectal polyps to shrink or reduce the presence of the growths.

Be smart with NSAIDs

People should still be smart about taking any medication. If questions arise, speak with a physician or pharmacist to understand dosage instructions, potential side effects, and if a particular NSAID might interact poorly with other prescriptions currently being taken.