Introduction to NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly used medicines. They are widely used to relieve pain and decrease inflammation. They act by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals responsible for causing pain and inflammation in the body. They are used in the treatment of various health conditions such as:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Muscle aches
  • Tooth pain
  • Gout pain
  • Bursitis
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Fever

Side Effects Associated with Nsaids

The risk of side effects is greatly enhanced with the use of NSAIDS, especially when high doses are taken for a long time, or if you are old or in poor general health.

The common side effects of NSAIDs include:

  • Bloating
  • Heartburn
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
  • Dizziness
  • Indigestion
  • Headaches
  • Drowsiness

NSAIDs serious side effects include:

  • Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, ankles, feet, lower legs, hands, or eye area
  • Itching
  • Unexplained bruising and bleeding
  • Unusual weight gain
  • Bloody, black, or tarry stools
  • Blurred vision
  • Ulcers
  • Severe stomach pain
  • Trouble breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Extreme fatigue

You must consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of these severe side effects.

Risk of Nsaids During Pregnancy and Lactation Period

In the third trimester of pregnancy, NSAIDs can cause significant risk to the fetus such as prolongation of pregnancy and labor, the constriction of ductus arteriosus, renal dysfunction, and haemostatic abnormalities can occur in the fetus and newborn due to use of NSAIDs. In the lactation period, small amounts of NSAIDs are regularly absorbed into the breast milk which carries a little risk of adverse effect on the infant.

Benefits of Nsaids for Arthritis Patient

In arthritis, NSAID works to reduce inflammation at the affected joints, which decreases swelling and pain. However, NSAIDs do not prevent the progression of bone and cartilage deterioration. They only help to ease the pain and swelling. They are used as short-term treatments for relief.

How Is Glme Better than Nsaids for Arthritis Management?

GLME is a potential natural remedy for arthritis patients. It is safe, effective and provides relief from the debilitating symptoms of both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.

GLME performs two distinct anti-inflammatory functions. The main anti-inflammatory activity is due to a carbohydrate complex, which has the ability to block the emigration of neutrophils from the blood vessels. Preventing inflammation is a major requirement in the treatment of arthritis.

The second anti-inflammatory activity is due to its long chain fatty acids effect on cyclo-oxygenase activities. COX enzymes are used by the body to biosynthesize chemicals called prostaglandins. Anti-inflammatory drugs also inhibit both COX 1 and COX 2 activity. Therefore they inhibit the formation of the prostaglandins. GLME has the most important benefit, of selectively inhibiting just the COX 2 activity.

Also, it is found to have natural gastro-protective properties. Therefore, it does not damage the delicate stomach lining. It provides relief from the inflammatory symptoms while protecting the stomach from the damaging effect of some pain-killers such as NSAIDS.

Moreover, NSAIDs provide rapid action, which is temporary but GLME provides slow and progressive effects that are long-lasting. Also, NSAIDs can damage joint cartilage but GLME helps to regenerate and improves the condition of the cartilage.