Word parts
What it means
A group of drugs that block the COX enzymes the body uses to make prostaglandins, the chemicals behind pain, fever and swelling. Members include ibuprofeneye-byoo-PROH-fenA drug that eases pain, fever and inflammation; a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.Full entry , naproxen, ketorolac, celecoxib and aspirinAS-prinA drug that eases pain, fever and inflammation and makes platelets less sticky so blood clots less easily.Full entry . Main risks are stomach ulcers and bleeding, kidney injury, and (for all but aspirin) a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.
For the nurse
Give with food or milk. Teach the client to report black stools, stomach pain or vomiting blood, and not to take two NSAIDs at once, since many cold remedies contain one. Prescription NSAIDs carry boxed warnings for heart attack, stroke and stomach bleeding, and the Beers Criteria advise against long-term use in older adults.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | NSAID |
|---|---|
| Spanish | antiinflamatorio no esteroideo (AINE) |
| Also written | nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAID, NSAIDs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug |
Related terms
analgesic
A drug that relieves pain.
inflammation
The body's protective response to injury or infection, with redness, heat, swelling, pain and sometimes loss of function.
aspirin
A drug that eases pain, fever and inflammation and makes platelets less sticky so blood clots less easily.
ibuprofen
A drug that eases pain, fever and inflammation; a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.