non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Question 1

Indications for NSAIDs

Answer 1

reduce inflammation, reduce fever, reduce pain

Question 2

Contra-indications for NSAIDs

Answer 2

history of/or gastrointestinal perforation/bleeding/ulceration/recurrent haemorrhage, severe heart failure

Question 3

Mechanism of action of NSAIDs

Answer 3

selective NSAIDs are COX-2 (cyclooxygenase) inhibitors so only inhibit the COX-2 enzyme and non-selective NSAIDs inhibit the COX-1 and COX-2 enzyme. This inhibits prostaglandin synthesis and reduces the inflammatory response

Question 4

Common side effects of NSAIDs

Answer 4

nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, decreased appetite, rash

Question 5

Monitoring requirements for NSAIDs

Answer 5

in renal impairment monitor renal function, sodium and water retention may occur and renal function may deteriorate

Question 6

Treatment cessation of NSAIDs

Answer 6

none

Question 7

Patient and carer advice for NSAIDs

Answer 7

long term use is associated with reduced female fertility, this is reversible when stopping treatment. don’t take during pregnancy especially in the third trimester, avoid if breast feeding