Anti-inflammatory medications

Inflammation is a protective response of the body to infection, injury, or a chronic medical problem like arthritis. Anti-inflammatory medicines are available in 2 categories, steroidal and non-steroidal, and are prescribed to reduce inflammation. In addition, many people take anti-inflammatory drugs for treatment of the flu, headaches, and other painful conditions.

Steroid anti-inflammatories are powerful medications, which are based on hormonal substances, like cortisone. These medications have a stronger anti-inflammatory response than the non-steroidal medicines. They can be taken as pills, given through your vein, or injected directly into a joint space.

There are many non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are the most common ones. Acetaminophen can bring down your fever, but may not work as well for conditions caused by inflammation.

There are side effects to both of these groups of medicines. They include:

• stomach upset

• stomach bleeding or ulcers

• kidney problems

• hearing problems or

• ankle swelling

The steroidal anti-inflammatories can have these side effects. there can be more serious side effects including:

• loss of bone (if you are on these for a long time, ask your provider about taking calcium supplements)

• cataracts

• problems with your ability to fight infection

• swelling and weight gain

• mood changes

• high blood pressure and

• problems with your bone marrow where blood cells are produced

These side effects should not stop you from using the steroid anti-inflammatory drugs for they are effective. They slow down or stop the inflammation and the dosage can be adjusted in an attempt to reduce the side effects. The steroid can be life saving.

Anti-inflammatories are used for a wide number of problems without causing side effects for most people. However, if you believe your child or anyone under the age of 21 may have the flu or chickenpox, you should NOT use aspirin. Acetaminophen, or Tylenol, is a good choice in this situation, because the use of aspirin in children with flu, chickenpox, or any presumed viral infection, has been associated with a rare disease called Reye's Syndrome.

Remember to tell your healthcare provider that you take aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medication as well as acetaminophen, because of possible side effects or interactions with other medications that may be recommended to you.

Copyright (c) 1999. HBO & Company (602) 230-7575. All Rights Reserved.