Family doctor

TYPE/ BRAND:

• Aspirin - Solprin
• Diclofenac - Voltaren
• Ibuprofen - Brufen
• Indomethacin - Indocid
• Ketoprofen - Oruvail
• Naproxen - Naprosyn, Synflex
• Tenoxicam - Tilcoltil
• Tiaprofenic - Surgam

USE: Anti-inflammatory

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) inhibit prostaglandin synthesis which is regarded as an important part of the pain and inflammatory process. They have a combined analgesic (pain relief) and anti-inflammatory effect which is particularly useful for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, migraine, surgery trauma, dental pain, and soft-tissue injuries.

Caution:

• Previous allergy to NSAIDs
• Stomach ulcer history
• Kidney impairment
• Pregnancy (avoid in 3rd trimester)
• Asthmatics
• Increased risk of side effects in elderly (especially women)
• Breastfeeding

Side effects:

Occasional: stomach upset, headache, dizziness.

Rarely: skin rash, gastric-bleeding, oedema, bronchospasm/worsening of asthma symptoms (5-10% of asthmatics).

Interactions:

Caution must be exercised with B-blockers, thiazide and loop diuretics, lithium, digoxin, warfarin, quinolone antibiotics and immunosuppressants.

Patient information:

• Follow instructions on the label of this medicine.
• Do not exceed the maximum dosage as directed by your doctor.
• Food: Taken after food with a large glass of water
• Alcohol: May prolong inflammation and swelling and increase risk of stomach bleeding
• Avoid taking other NSAID over-the counter preparations (Nurofen, Cataflam, Disprin etc).
• Contact your doctor or seek medical help if side effects are severe or ongoing.
• Discuss any symptoms of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting with your doctor - the medication may need to be stopped.