Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drug

Definition 1

Anti-inflammatory agents that are not steroids. In addition to anti-inflammatory actions, they have analgesic, antipyretic, and platelet-inhibitory actions. They are used primarily in the treatment of chronic arthritic conditions and certain soft tissue disorders associated with pain and inflammation. They act by blocking the synthesis of prostaglandins by inhibiting cyclooxygenase, which converts arachidonic acid to cyclic endoperoxides, precursors of prostaglandins. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis accounts for their analgesic, antipyretic, and platelet-inhibitory actions; other mechanisms may contribute to their anti-inflammatory effects. Certain NSAIDs also may inhibit lipoxygenase enzymes or phospholipase C or may modulate T-cell function. (NLM, Medical Subject Headings)

Definition 2

A group of drugs that decrease fever, swelling, pain, and redness. (NCI Dictionary)

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug

A drug that decreases fever, swelling, pain, and redness. Also called NSAID.

Nonstarchy vegetable

A member of the family of vegetables that does not contain starch (sugar molecules joined chemically). Nonstarchy vegetables are usually lower in…

Nonstandard Medical Device or Device Component

Issue associated with a material that does not meet the specifications or requirements for which it was manufactured, and has not been…

Nonspecific Intraventricular Conduction Delay by ECG Finding

An electrocardiographic finding of a widened QRS duration typically greater than 110 ms which does not meet the morphologic criteria for any…

Nonspecific immunomodulating agent

A substance that affects the immune system in a general way and may help the body fight cancer, infection, or other…

Nonspecific immune cell

A cell (such as a phagocyte or a macrophage) that responds to many antigens, not just one antigen.