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

When you reach for ibuprofen or naproxen to ease a headache, sore muscles, or joint pain, you’re using a NSAID, a class of drugs that reduce pain, fever, and inflammation by blocking enzymes that trigger swelling and discomfort. Also known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, they’re one of the most widely used medication types in the world—but that doesn’t mean they’re safe for everyone.

NSAIDs work by targeting two enzymes, COX-1 and COX-2, which your body uses to make prostaglandins. These chemicals cause pain and swelling when you’re injured or sick, but they also protect your stomach lining and help your kidneys function properly. That’s why taking NSAIDs long-term can lead to stomach ulcers, high blood pressure, or even kidney damage. Piroxicam, a strong NSAID often used for arthritis and tendonitis, is especially risky for older adults or people with existing kidney issues. Even topical versions like piroxicam gel, a localized pain reliever that reduces systemic side effects aren’t risk-free—they can still get absorbed into your bloodstream, especially if used over large areas or for long periods.

Not all NSAIDs are the same. Some, like aspirin, also thin your blood. Others, like celecoxib, are designed to be gentler on the stomach but may raise heart risks. If you’re on blood pressure meds, have heart disease, or are over 60, you’re more likely to run into problems. Many people don’t realize that even occasional use—like popping a few pills before a workout—can add up over time. Studies show that people who take NSAIDs regularly for more than a month are at higher risk for kidney injury, even without symptoms. And if you’re taking them for chronic pain, you might be masking a bigger issue that needs real treatment.

What you’ll find in this collection isn’t just a list of NSAID brands. It’s a practical guide to how these drugs really affect your body, who should avoid them, and what alternatives actually work. You’ll see how piroxicam impacts kidney function, why some people get relief from topical gels while others don’t, and how insurance and pricing play a role in what you’re actually paying. There’s also real talk about when NSAIDs help—and when they’re doing more harm than good.