Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Warning

General Notes

Where an NSAID is indicated, the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest possible duration to control symptoms.

The choice of NSAID depends on patient characteristics, medical history, and the type of complaint.

All NSAIDs have been associated with serious GI toxicity, a small increased risk of thrombotic events and rarely precipitating renal failure. The appropriateness of NSAID prescribing should be reviewed on a routine basis, particularly in those at higher risk of GI, renal and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

The NICE CKS: NSAIDs – Prescribing Issues provides further information on factors that should be considered when prescribing NSAIDs.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Preferred list (P)

IBUPROFEN

NAPROXEN

Total list (T)

DICLOFENAC

CELECOXIB

NHSL Joint Adult Formulary Key

To indicate the category of a formulary medicine, updated sections adopt the following key:

Preferred list (P): First-line formulary choices.

Total list (T): Alternative choices when preferred list options not effective/not tolerated, or not indicated.

Specialist initiation (S1): Specialist initiation, or on the advice of a Consultant or Specialist Practitioner in this therapeutic area. Continuation in primary care is acceptable.

Specialist use only (S2): Supply via hospital, Homecare Service or a hospital based prescription (HBP) for dispensing by community pharmacy. Not prescribed in primary care setting.

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 31/01/2022

Next review date: 31/01/2025

Author(s): NHSL.

Version: Please refer to the introduction section for an explanation of the review dates above.

Approved By: ADTC

Reviewer name(s): ADTC.