NON-STEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS IN THE MEDICAL AND DENTAL CLINICS

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to review the scientific literature on the rational use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the medical and dental clinics, based on the treatment of inflammatory processes with fewer adverse effects. Material and Methods: Bibliographical searches were carried out in the electronic database BVS using the descriptor “non-steroidal anti-inflammatory”. Results: The literature reports that by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxane, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been mostly used in medicine and dentistry for the control of musculoskeletal manifestations to prevent post-surgical traumatic inflammatory reactions. However, these drugs can cause a number of side effects when misused. The painful process that affects the oral structures is usually of acute inflammatory origin, forcing the patient to seek a dentist to properly treat them. Hence, the professional should have a good knowledge of the drug indications, contraindications and side effects. Selective inhibitors of COX-2 are being preferably prescribed as these have better anti-inflammatory effectiveness and no undesirable gastrointestinal effects. These drugs are called coxibs and selectively bind to the active site of the enzyme COX-2, creating a blockage which is more effective than that of COX-1. Conclusion: This review may infer that COX-2 NSADs are most commonly indicated due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effectiveness, which is similar to that of other NSAIDs. Thus, this class of drugs is indicated as a first choice for the treatment of patients who are predisposed to ulceration and digestive bleeding. DESCRIPTORS Anti -inflammatory non-steroidal. Cyclooxygenase. Inflammation.