What Are the Best Medications for Inflammation (Anti-inflammatory)?

Numerous over-the-counter and prescriptions medications are available to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — including ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen — are commonly found in most medicine cabinets. They can be effective in treating such ailments as headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual pain and injuries, Healthline noted.

NSAIDs work by blocking the enzyme cyclooxygenase that is involved in inflammation, according to Medical News Today.

The best over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, according to Livestrong, are:

• Ibuprofen — A 2008 study found that ibuprofen was more effective than acetaminophen at reducing pain.
• Naproxen — Commonly marketed under the brand name Aleve, naproxen is recommended for inflammatory conditions and chronic low back pain.
• Aspirin — Aspirin has been found to be effective for treating migraines and other inflammatory conditions.

Prolonged use of NSAIDs can lead to liver and kidney damage and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, Fox News noted.

Serious complications that require medical attention include ringing in your ears, blurry vision, rash, fluid retention, blood in your urine or stools, severe stomach pain, chest pain, rapid heartbeat and jaundice, Healthline said. NSAIDs also can interact with some other medications.

To reduce risks, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises that NSAIDs should be used exactly as directed, at the lowest dose possible and for the shortest amount of time.

Corticosteroids, including cortisone, prednisone, and methylprednisolone, reduce inflammation and guard against tissue damage, the Cleveland Clinic noted.

Prescribed to treat such conditions as systemic vasculitis, myositis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, these medications also carry the potential for side effects, and individuals risks should be monitored by a doctor, Cleveland Clinic said.

Alternatives to conventional medications that have anti-inflammatory properties include curcumin, ginger root and rosemary, Fox News noted.

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