Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: current trends in pharmacology and therapeutics

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are commonly used for the chronic treatment of many inflammatory disorders. They are also used for the reduction of fever and mild to moderate pain. Because they are readily available to patients as both prescription and over-the-counter medications, it is likely that the practicing optometrist will encounter these agents in the practice setting. NSAIDS are associated with several common ocular and systemic adverse effects that include nonspecific conjunctivitis, blurred vision, allergic reactions and bleeding disorders. This article reviews the mechanism of action of NSAIDS as well as common or severe ocular and systemic side effects.