Arthritis: Anti-Inflammatory Painkiller Drugs and Arthritis

Can I Take NSAIDs If I'm Being Treated for High Blood Pressure?

NSAIDs can raise blood pressure in some people. Some people with high blood pressure may have to stop taking NSAIDs if their blood pressure increases in spite of regularly taking their blood pressure medications.

Are NSAIDs Available Without a Prescription?

Yes. Over-the-counter NSAIDs are available without a prescription in much lower doses than comparable prescription NSAIDs. Current over-the-counter NSAIDs include:

• Aspirin compounds (Anacin, Ascriptin, Bayer, Bufferin and Excedrin)
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Nuprin and Motrin)
• Ketoprofen (Orudis)
• Naproxen sodium (Aleve)

Manufacturers of over-the-counter NSAID painkillers were instructed by the FDA in 2005 to revise their labels to clarify information about the risks of cardiovascular incidents, gastrointestinal bleeding and rare but serious skin reactions.

As with any medication, always follow the directions on the label and the instructions from your doctor.

Never use an over-the-counter NSAID continuously for more than two weeks without checking with your doctor. Over-the-counter NSAIDs are effective pain relievers, but they are intended for short-term use. When taking NSAIDs for long periods of time, you should be carefully monitored by your doctor so he or she can detect side effects and change your treatment if necessary.

Who Should Not Take NSAIDs?

In general, NSAIDs are not recommended for the following:

• People with stomach or intestinal problems, including ulcers or intestinal bleeding
• Women who are pregnant or nursing
• People who are allergic to aspirin or other medications containing aspirin
• People with kidney or liver disease
• People with blood clotting problems.

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