Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs--uses and complications

Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are important in the management of any inflammatory arthritis. However, all NSAIDs have side effects--NSAID related gastropathy (the most common serious side-effect), reversible NSAID nephropathy, dermal complications, hematologic complications, hepatic complications, central nervous system complications, pulmonary complications etc. Patients who have more severe forms of rheumatic disease, take higher doses of NSAIDs with steroids and suffer concomitant medical illness are at higher risk for these toxicities. In all cases, the benefits from the use of NSAIDs must outweigh the risk. When managing a high risk patient, consider alternate therapy and if an NSAID must be used, always monitor the patient carefully.