NSAIDs

Definition

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce pain and inflammation.

Purpose

NSAIDs often are used to relieve mild to moderate pain for all types of cancer.

Description

This class of drugs eases discomfort by blocking the pathway of an enzyme that creates prostaglandins (hormones that cause pain and swelling). By doing so, the drugs lessen the pain in different parts of the body.

Some of the NSAIDs used in cancer treatment include: ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Rufen, Nuprin), naproxen (Naprosyn, Naprelan, Anaprox, Aleve), nabumetone (Relafen), ketorolac, sulindac and diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren). The class of drugs known as Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors that emerged in the late 1990s for dealing with arthritis pain, such as the brand names Celebrex and Vioxx, is also considered part of the group of NSAIDS.

If NSAIDs are not strong enough to keep a cancer patient comfortable, physicians often will combine them with opioids, such as codeine. In later stages, doctors also may combine NSAIDs with stronger pain killers, such as morphine, to treat very severe pain.

NSAIDs also may be used to prevent colon cancer and other types of cancer, although scientists are still studying this experimental approach (see entry on chemoprevention).

Recommended dosage

Patients typically take NSAIDs on an as-needed basis. Doses vary depending on the type of NSAID being used. For example, the most common type, ibuprofen, is available over the counter in 200mg caplets, which can be taken at regular intervals throughout the day. The maximum daily dose for ibuprofen is 1, 200 mgs.

Precautions

Most doctors recommend taking NSAIDs with a full glass of water. Avoid taking these drugs on an empty stomach. Smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol while taking NSAIDs may irritate the stomach.

People who take NSAIDs should notify their doctor before having surgery or dental work, since these drugs can prevent wounds from healing properly.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should check with their doctor before taking NSAIDs, because they may be harmful to a developing fetus or a newborn.

Diabetics, people who take aspirin, blood thinners, blood pressure medications or steroids also should check with their doctor before taking NSAIDs.

Content licensed from:

Author Info: Melissa Knopper M.S., The Gale Group Inc., Gale, Detroit, Gale Encyclopedia of Cancer, 2002

This feature is for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the care and information received from your healthcare provider. Please consult a healthcare professional with any health concerns you may have.