[Important side effects of non-steroidal antirheumatic agents]

Side effects of non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs are divided in three groups: unwanted effects resulting from the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, side effects specific for certain drugs, and side effects due to application of drugs in general. Prior to the prescription of non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs the risk of side effects has to be balanced against the expected benefits, the patient has to be informed about possible side effects and their symptoms.