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

When you reach for NSAIDs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce pain, fever, and inflammation. Also known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, they’re the go-to for headaches, sore muscles, and joint pain. But most people don’t know how they actually work—or what they’re risking with long-term use.

NSAIDs like ibuprofen, a common over-the-counter painkiller that blocks enzymes causing inflammation and pain and naproxen, a longer-acting NSAID often prescribed for arthritis and chronic pain don’t just mask symptoms. They interfere with your body’s natural inflammation process by shutting down COX enzymes. That’s why they help with swelling and fever. But that same mechanism can irritate your stomach lining, raise blood pressure, and strain your kidneys over time. Studies show that even short-term use increases heart attack risk in people with existing conditions. And if you’re taking them daily for back pain or osteoarthritis, you’re likely unaware of how much damage you might be doing.

Not everyone reacts the same. Some people take NSAIDs for years with no issues. Others get stomach ulcers after just a few weeks. Why? It depends on age, other meds you’re on, and whether you have a history of GI problems. That’s why the FDA warns against using them for more than 10 days without talking to a doctor. And if you’re on blood thinners or have kidney disease, NSAIDs can be dangerous—even at low doses.

There are alternatives. Physical therapy, heat therapy, and even certain supplements like turmeric or omega-3s can help manage pain without the risks. Some people find relief with acetaminophen, which doesn’t reduce inflammation but is gentler on the stomach. But if you’re still using NSAIDs, you need to know the signs of trouble: black stools, swelling in your legs, sudden dizziness, or persistent stomach pain. These aren’t just side effects—they’re red flags.

The posts below cover real stories and science behind these drugs. You’ll find guides on how to reduce your reliance on NSAIDs, what to do when they stop working, how they interact with other meds like blood pressure pills, and why some people should never take them at all. Whether you’re managing arthritis, recovering from an injury, or just tired of popping pills, this collection gives you the facts—not the marketing.