

Some NSAIDs come in both OTC and prescription forms.Įxamples of NSAIDs that come in both forms include:Ī person can typically find both OTC ibuprofen and naproxen in brand name and generic forms. Though they may share similar strengths, dosing, and potential side effects, a person should follow all instructions from a doctor or pharmacist when taking the medications and not assume that if they switch medications, the dosing will be the same. Except for celecoxib, they are all non-selective forms of NSAIDs. Prescription-onlyĪ doctor has several options to choose from when it comes to prescription NSAIDs. Dosing and formulas can affect how they work, how quickly they work, and how many tablets or pills a person needs. NSAIDs do not neatly fit into a listing of strongest to weakest. Currently, in the United States, celecoxib is the only NSAID available in this group.īy selectively targeting only COX-2, celecoxib can help with inflammation without affecting other systems in the body, such as the kidneys. Selective, also known as COX-2 selective, only targets COX-2. This may lead to different adverse reactions as they can affect different systems in the body. This means they target both COX-1 and COX-2 isoenzymes. The majority of NSAIDs are non-selective. COX-2 helps the body with the inflammatory response due to injury or illness.COX-1 helps the body maintain platelet aggregation, gastrointestinal mucosa lining, and kidney function.

They each play slightly different roles in the body: There are two types of cyclooxygenase isoenzymes: COX-1 and COX-2. They also help with temperature regulation and how the body responds to mechanical injuries. Prostaglandins may play a role in opening up blood vessels. The absence of these chemicals in the body is likely how NSAIDs work to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever.įor example, thromboxanes help with platelet adhesion. The body needs COX to convert arachidonic acid into prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and prostacyclins. NSAIDs primarily target an isoenzyme known as cyclooxygenase (COX). To understand these groupings, a person needs to know how NSAIDs work. They also fit into one of two groups: non-selective and selective. selective COX-2 inhibitors (celecoxib, etoricoxib).acetic acids (diclofenac and indomethacin).propionic acids (naproxen and ibuprofen).anthranilic acids (meclofenamate and mefenamic acid).non-acetylated salicylates (diflunisal, salsalate).NSAIDs come in several different forms based on their chemical structure and selectivity. Share on Pinterest Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
