NSAIDs: What They Are, How They Work, and What You Need to Know

When you reach for ibuprofen or naproxen to ease a headache, sore muscles, or menstrual cramps, you’re using a type of medicine called NSAIDs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce pain, fever, and inflammation. Also known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, these drugs are among the most widely used medications worldwide — but they’re not harmless, even if they’re sold over the counter.

NSAIDs work by blocking enzymes called COX-1 and COX-2 that trigger inflammation and pain signals. But here’s the catch: blocking COX-1 can mess with your stomach lining, which is why some people get ulcers or bleeding after taking them long-term. That’s why naproxen might be gentler on the stomach than ibuprofen for some, while others need to avoid all NSAIDs if they have kidney issues, high blood pressure, or a history of heart problems. These drugs don’t just relieve pain — they can affect your entire system, and not always in good ways.

People often don’t realize that NSAIDs can interact with other meds you’re taking. For example, if you’re on blood pressure medicine like lisinopril or a diuretic like hydrochlorothiazide, combining them with NSAIDs can make your kidneys work harder — or worse, fail. Even something as simple as grapefruit juice can change how your body processes these drugs. And if you’ve ever been told you have a "drug allergy," it’s worth checking whether your reaction was truly an allergy or just a side effect — because mislabeling can keep you from using safe, effective pain relief later.

Not everyone needs NSAIDs. For chronic pain, physical therapy, heat wraps, or even certain supplements might work better without the risks. If you’re using them daily for arthritis or back pain, you should be monitoring your blood pressure, kidney function, and stomach health — not just popping pills and hoping for the best. And if you’re pregnant or planning to be, some NSAIDs can harm a developing baby, especially in the third trimester.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how NSAIDs fit into broader health decisions — from spotting dangerous reactions to understanding how they interact with other drugs, how to manage side effects, and when to skip them entirely. Whether you’re using them occasionally or regularly, these posts give you the facts you need to use NSAIDs safely — or find better options.