NSAIDs (redirected from Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

NSAIDs

 or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Drugs that reduce inflammation and are effective against pain (see analgesic) and fever. Most are available without prescription and are usually used for short periods for mild pain. Aspirin is technically an NSAID, but the term is generally applied to a newer class of drugs, including ibuprofen and similar drugs (e.g., naproxen, ketoprofen) that, like aspirin, inhibit prostaglandin synthesis. They act with fewer side effects, but aspirin-sensitive people should not use them.