NSAIDs

• e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac

Main indications

• Inflammatory arthritis
• Mechanical MSK pain
• Pleuritic/pericardial pain

Mechanism of action

• Most NSAIDs act as nonselective inhibitors of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes

Contraindications and cautions

• Contraindicated in peptic ulcer disease

Adverse effects

• GI - dyspepsia, oesophagitis, gastritis, peptic ulcer, bowel ulceration
• Renal impairment
• Increased cardiovascular risk
• Fluid retention
• Wheeze - caution in asthma
• Rash

Administration

• PO

Methotrexate