What it means
A common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugnon-STAIR-oy-dul an-tee-in-FLAM-uh-tor-ee DRUGA drug that relieves pain, fever and inflammation and is not a steroid, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.non- notanti- againstinflamm/o inflammationFull entry used for headache, muscle and joint pain, menstrual cramps, fever and arthritis. It is sold over the counter and by prescription, and is also given IV. It can irritate and bleed the stomach, raise blood pressure, hold fluid and harm the kidneys, especially in older adults and people who are dehydrated.
For the nurse
Give it with food or milk. Teach the client not to take it with other NSAIDs or aspirin unless told to, and to report black stools, stomach pain, swelling or less urine. Its boxed warning covers a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and stomach bleeding; it is not given for pain around heart bypass surgery. The Beers Criteria advise against long-term use in older adults unless other choices fail.
At a glance
| Drug class | nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Advil, Motrin, Caldolor (IV) |
| Spanish | ibuprofeno |
| Also written | Advil, Motrin |
Easy to confuse with
gabapentin
An anticonvulsant drug used for some kinds of seizures and for nerve pain.
Related terms
analgesic
A drug that relieves pain.
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
A drug that relieves pain, fever and inflammation and is not a steroid, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
aspirin
A drug that eases pain, fever and inflammation and makes platelets less sticky so blood clots less easily.