Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS): Chemistry, Mechanism and their Adverse events.

Abstract

More than 15 different non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are available commercially, and these agents are used worldwide for their analgesic antipyretic and antiinflammatory effects in patients with multiple medical conditions. NSAIDs, including aspirin, do not generally change the course of the disease process in those conditions, where they are used for symptomatic relief. The main mechanism of action of NSAIDs is the inhibition of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). Cyclooxygenase is required to convert arachidonic acid into thromboxane’s, prostaglandins, and prostacyclin’s. Assessment of toxicity and therapeutic response to a given NSAID must take into account the time needed to reach the steady state plasma concentration (roughly equal to three to five half-lives of the drug). NSAIDs have wellknown adverse effects affecting the gastric mucosa, renal system, cardiovascular system, hepatic system, and hematologic system.