A Brief Review on Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Classification, Mechanism of Action and Toxicity

Inflammation is a natural response to tissue damage or infection, initiated by the immune system to facilitate repair and healing. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely recognized for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and fever-reducing effects. In addition to treating inflammation, pain, and fever, NSAIDs are frequently used to treat acute and chronic inflammatory conditions such as migraines, gout, migraine symptoms, and arthritis. Common side effects of NSAIDs include nausea, dyspepsia, GI bleeds or ulcers, high liver enzymes, diarrhea, constipation, epistaxis, headache, dizziness, rash, fluid retention, and high blood pressure. The digestive system's vulnerability limits their application. This review explores the potential of -COOH group protection to mitigate gastrointestinal toxicity, proposing the development of NSAID prodrugs through ester linkage with antioxidants. The envisioned prodrugs aim not only to address the digestive system's concerns but also to exhibit synergistic actions, expanding the therapeutic potential of NSAIDs.