How Do You Compare NSAID Drugs For Arthritis Relief?
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (known as NSAIDs) are used to relieve fever, inflammation and pain but do not have the other effects of steroids. They also do not produce the respiratory depression or sedation effects of opiates and have a very low addiction rate. The following steps show how to compare NSAIDs for arthritis relief. Step 1 Study acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin). Aspirin is the oldest known NSAID, having been isolated in 1829, and is the only NSAID that irreversibly inhibits COX-1. Aspirin is generally safe for adults and is available without a prescription. Step 2 Examine the use of ibuprofen (Motrin and Advil). This NSAID has a short half-life in the 2- to 3-hour range, is regarded as relatively safe and does not require a prescription. It also has a low rate of gastric upset when used in lower doses. Step 3 Compare naproxen sodium (Aleve) with other NSAIDs. It is available over-the-counter in the United States but requires a prescription in many other countries. It
