Last Updated on March 8, 2026 by Williams Okechukwu
NSAIDs Medical Abbreviation
In medical terms, the meaning of NSAIDs refers to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a class of medications commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. The meaning behind the term highlights the way these drugs work — unlike steroids, NSAIDs reduce inflammation by blocking enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) involved in the body’s inflammatory process.
This makes them a core treatment option for conditions like arthritis, muscle strain, headaches, and menstrual pain. They can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Muscle pain
- Dysmenorrhea
- Arthritis
- Migraines
- Headaches
- Sprains and strains
- Colds and flu
- Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Some examples of NSAIDs include
Side Effects
NSAIDs can have serious side effects, including bleeding and problems with the stomach, kidneys, or heart. Research suggests that NSAIDs can also slow down the body’s natural healing process.
-
- Gastrointestinal issues: Stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, gas, and bloating
- Headaches: Headaches and dizziness
- Drowsiness: Drowsiness and feeling faint
- High blood pressure: NSAIDs can raise blood pressure in some people
- Allergic reactions: Swollen lips, mouth, throat, or tongue, difficulty breathing, and skin, tongue, or lips turning blue, gray, or pale
Serious side effects
- Stomach ulcers: Can cause internal bleeding and anaemia
- Heart problems: Heart failure, heart attacks, and strokes
- Kidney problems: Blood in your urine, passing less urine, or feeling sick
- Liver problems: Jaundice or inflammation of the liver
- Anaemia: Feeling faint, tired, or short of breath
- Pancreas inflammation: High temperature, stomach pain, and being sick