Anti-Inflammatory

Question 1

Aspirin

Answer 1

MECHANISM
Inhibits COX but is non-selective.

INDICATIONS
Antipyretic
Analgesic
Anti-Inflammatory
Anti-platelet

SIDE EFFECTS
Gastrointestinal upset

ADVERSE EFFECTS
Prolonged Bleeding

Question 2

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS)

Answer 2

MECHANISM
Inhibits COX non-selectively.

INDICATIONS
Antipyretic
Analgesic
Anti-Inflammatory

SIDE EFFECTS
GI Irritation-less so than aspirin.

ADVERSE EFFECTS
Bleeding

Question 3

COX-2 NSAIDS

Answer 3

MECHANISM
Selectively inhibit COX-2 spare “good” COX 1

INDICATIONS
Antipyretic
Analgesic
Anti-Inflammatory

SIDE EFFECTS
None? No GI

ADVERSE EFFECTS
Potentially fatal cardiac effects

Question 4

Glucocorticosteroids

Answer 4

EXAMPLES
Endogenous: Cortisol/hydrocortisone (adrenal cortex)
Synthetic: Prednisone/Dexamethasone

MECHANISM
Inhibit several parts of the inflammatory process including capillary dilation, edema formation, and migration of WBC’s and macrophages.

INDICATIONS
Potent anti-inflammatory
Used extensively with RA and DJD

SIDE EFFECTS
Most all effects are adverse

ADVERSE EFFECTS
Adrenal Insufficiency
Cushingoid state
Immunosuppresion
Fluid retension
Hyperglycemia
Osteoporosis
Myopathy
GI Disturbance