Asheville Office
1 Vanderbilt Park Dr.
Suite 100
Asheville, NC 28803
Ph: (828) 277-8042
Fax: (828) 277-8046

Hendersonville Office
735 6th Ave. West
Suite D
Hendersonville, NC 28739
Ph: (828) 696-1717
Fax: (828) 696-1718

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451 North Main St.
Suite 106
Marion, NC 28752
Ph: (828) 652-0205

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What are NSAIDs and how do they work? PDF Print E-mail
Q&A - General Podiatric Questions
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are non-prescription, over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium. They are popular treatments for muscular aches and pains, as well as arthritis.

NSAIDs not only relieve pain, but also help to decrease inflammation, prevent blood clots, and reduce fevers. They work by blocking the actions of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme. There are two forms of the COX enzyme. COX-2 is produced when joints are injured or inflamed, which NSAIDS counteract. COX-1 protects the stomach lining from acids and digestive juices and helps the kidneys function properly. This is why side effects of NSAIDs may include nausea, upset stomach, ulcers, or improper kidney function.