NSAIDs

What NSAIDs are for

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help treat pain, swelling and inflammation.

They're commonly used to treat:

• headaches
• painful periods
• sprains and strains
• colds and flu, including a high temperature
• conditions such as arthritis that can cause long-term pain

Types of NSAIDs

There are different types of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), that come in different forms, such as:

• tablets and capsules
• gels and sprays
• liquid you swallow
• granules you mix with water and drink
• medicine you put into your bottom (suppositories)

Some NSAIDs are available to buy from shops and pharmacies, but some are only available with a prescription.

NSAIDs available without a prescription include:

• ibuprofen
• aspirin for pain relief 
• diclofenac gel, patches and plasters

NSAIDs only available with a prescription include:

• naproxen
• diclofenac tablets, capsules, suppositories
• mefenamic acid
• celecoxib
• etoricoxib
• indomethacin

Side effects of NSAIDs

Like all medicines, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause side effects but not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

Some common side effects of NSAIDs include:

• indigestion and stomach ache
• feeling and being sick
• diarrhoea
• feeling dizzy
• a rash
• headaches

If side effects are a problem for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

NSAIDs can sometimes cause serious side effects, although most of them are rare.

Possible serious side effects of NSAIDs include:

• an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash or difficulty breathing
• stomach ulcers or bleeding inside your stomach – causing symptoms such as stomach pain, shortness of breath, pale skin, vomiting blood, or poo that's black, sticky and tar-like
• kidney problems – causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, blood in your pee, or swelling in your ankles, feet or hands

Other side effects

These are not all the possible side effects of NSAIDs. Some side effects are rare but serious and you may need to contact 111 for advice.

Always check the information leaflet that comes with your medicine.

Who can take NSAIDs

Most adults can take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They're not usually recommended if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

Talk to your doctor or a pharmacist if you're pregnant or breastfeeding so they can decide on the best treatment for you and your baby.

Children can take some NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, if prescribed, but do not give aspirin to children under 16.

Taking NSAIDs with alcohol, food or other medicines

Taking NSAIDs with some other medicines can cause side effects and is not recommended.

It can cause problems if you take NSAIDs with medicines such as:

• other NSAIDs
• anticoagulants (such as warfarin)
• steroids
• antidepressants
• medicines to lower blood pressure

You can eat and drink normally while taking NSAIDs, but drinking a lot of alcohol may increase the risk of side effects or irritate your stomach.