Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are among the most widely used drugs worldwide, available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and others. Most NSAIDs, with the exception of aspirin, work by inhibiting the activity of a family of enzymes called cyclooxygenases, which drive inflammatory processes. But because these inflammatory processes can be beneficial in some contexts and because the drugs often elicit off-target effects, there are some concerns about their use.  In this Aliquot, I describe current recommendations and concerns surrounding NSAID use.

Introduction

Daily aspirin use and cardiovascular disease risk (clip from Q&A #9)

The pros and cons of low-dose aspirin (clip from Q&A #30)

Aspirin use and metastatic cancer risk

Aspirin vs other NSAIDs

Effects of ibuprofen on the kidneys, stomach, and muscles (clip from Q&A #14)

NSAIDs, heart attack, and stroke