NSAID options: practical choices for pain and inflammation

Need relief from pain or swelling and wondering which NSAID to try? NSAID options include over-the-counter pills, prescription-strength tablets, and topical gels or patches. Each has pros and cons: some work better for long-lasting pain, others cut stomach trouble or lower overall exposure. Think of this as a quick, usable guide so you can pick what fits your body and lifestyle.

Common NSAID types and when they help

For everyday aches, OTC options like ibuprofen and naproxen are the usual go-tos. Ibuprofen often works fast for short pain; naproxen lasts longer so you may dose less often. Aspirin also reduces pain and inflammation but is better known for heart uses at low doses and can irritate the stomach more than others.

Prescription NSAIDs include stronger doses and drugs like diclofenac or ketoprofen. Celecoxib is a COX-2 selective option that can be easier on the stomach for some people, but it may carry higher heart-related risks for others. Topical NSAIDs—gels, creams, or patches with diclofenac or other agents—come in handy for joint or localized muscle pain. They give good local effect with less drug circulating in your blood.

Safety tips and real-world trade-offs

Pick the lowest effective dose for the shortest time that helps. Don’t mix different NSAIDs together or take an NSAID with high-dose aspirin unless a doctor says so. If you take blood thinners, have high blood pressure, kidney problems, or heart disease, NSAIDs can cause trouble—talk to your clinician first.

Stomach issues are a common problem. If an NSAID causes heartburn or black stools, stop it and call your doctor. For people who need ongoing NSAID therapy, doctors sometimes add a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to protect the stomach, or recommend a COX-2 selective drug instead—both are medical decisions worth discussing.

Topical NSAIDs are a smart choice if your pain is in one area, like a knee or shoulder. They often work well and reduce the chance of stomach or kidney problems because much less of the drug reaches your bloodstream.

Watch for drug interactions: NSAIDs can increase levels or side effects of blood pressure meds, lithium, methotrexate, and certain antidepressants. If you’re on multiple prescriptions, check with a pharmacist or doctor before starting anything new.

Want quick relief without NSAIDs? Acetaminophen can be safer for the stomach but won’t reduce inflammation. Physical therapy, icing, heat, and topical treatments can also help and let you use less medication overall.

If pain is severe, lasts more than a few days despite treatment, or comes with fever, swelling, sudden shortness of breath, fainting, or reduced urine, seek medical care right away. For regular or long-term use, schedule a check with your clinician to pick the safest NSAID option for you.