NSAID

Abbreviation for Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug, a class of medications known for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties.

 

Anti-Inflammatory:

Capable of reducing inflammation, a key characteristic of NSAIDs that makes them effective in managing conditions such as arthritis and musculoskeletal pain.

 

Analgesic:

A substance that relieves pain without causing a loss of consciousness, a primary function of NSAIDs in managing pain of varying intensities.

 

Antipyretic:

Having the ability to reduce fever, a property of NSAIDs commonly used to alleviate fever associated with various conditions.

 

COX (Cyclooxygenase):

An enzyme involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins, targeted by NSAIDs to reduce inflammation and pain. COX has two isoforms, COX-1 and COX-2.

 

COX-1 Inhibition:

The blocking of the COX-1 enzyme by NSAIDs, contributing to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, but also associated with potential side effects such as gastrointestinal irritation.

 

COX-2 Inhibition:

The specific targeting of the COX-2 enzyme by NSAIDs, providing anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects with a reduced risk of gastrointestinal side effects compared to COX-1 inhibition.

 

Prostaglandins:

Lipid compounds produced in response to injury or inflammation, contributing to pain and fever. NSAIDs work by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins.

 

Gastrointestinal Ulceration:

Formation of ulcers in the stomach or intestines, a potential side effect of NSAIDs due to their impact on the gastrointestinal mucosa.

 

Gastroprotective Medications:

Additional medications prescribed alongside NSAIDs to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers.