Definition: NSAIDs stands for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and the term is most often used in this short form. Drugs in this class are used to relieve pain, stiffness, swelling, and fever, which are all caused by inflammation.
Many are available over the counter, but some require a prescription. While these drugs usually treat symptoms rather than cure any disease, the prescription strength forms have also been used as a biological treatment for cancer, mostly in clinical research trials.
Some common drugs included in the NSAID group are:
Pronunciation: EHN-said
Also Known As: non-steroidals, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
Examples: NSAIDs are often used to relieve pain and swelling, and most can be taken orally in tablet or even chewable form.
