[Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents: a critical view]

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Geriatrics
• Internal Medicine

Context:

• Nonsteroid antiinflammatory agents (NSAIDs) are widely used for pain and inflammation.
• Older adults represent a growing population with unique pharmacological considerations.
• Gastrointestinal bleeding and heart failure are significant concerns in geriatric pharmacotherapy.

Purpose:

• To review the clinical pharmacology of NSAIDs.
• To highlight the untoward effects of NSAIDs, particularly in the elderly.
• To discuss the differential efficacy of NSAIDs in acute versus chronic inflammatory conditions.

Summary:

• NSAIDs exhibit distinct clinical pharmacology and potential adverse effects.
• Special caution is advised when prescribing NSAIDs to older patients.
• Increased incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding and heart failure exacerbation are key risks in the elderly.
• NSAIDs demonstrate greater efficacy in treating acute inflammatory processes compared to chronic ones.

Impact:

• Informing clinical practice regarding NSAID use in older populations.
• Mitigating risks associated with NSAID therapy in vulnerable patients.
• Guiding therapeutic decisions for managing acute and chronic inflammatory conditions.