Drug

Autoimmune disease is a disease that occurs when the body's immune system, which is supposed to fight viral and bacterial infections, doesn't function properly. This disease condition appears gradually and if left untreated it can cause organ damage and even death. Therefore, the use of drugs is needed to relieve the symptoms. Then, can NSAIDs be used to relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases?

What are NSAIDs?

Source: Wisconsin Public Radio

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are drugs that are usually used to relieve pain and tenderness when experiencing symptoms of a disease.

Commonly used NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium. There are many NSAIDs you can find in pharmacies or supermarkets and can be taken without a doctor's prescription. However, if you need a stronger type of NSAID, you will certainly need a prescription from your doctor.

Usually, NSAIDs are used to treat symptoms associated with musculoskeletal disorders such as gout, arthritis, and back pain. Sometimes drugs are also taken when a person experiences pain caused by dental problems, menstrual cramps, and headaches due to the flu.

NSAIDs reduce pain by blocking enzymes in the body to block the production of prostaglandins, which are natural fatty acids that play a role in causing pain and inflammation.

Can NSAIDs be used to treat autoimmune diseases?

In fact, NSAID drugs are often used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. NSAIDs work very well in treating pain caused by slow tissue breakdown, and therefore their use is appropriate for this disease.

Indeed, NSAIDs cannot cure autoimmune diseases. However, this drug can relieve symptoms, minimize damage to body tissues, and maintain organ function.

The following are examples of the use of NSAIDs for several common autoimmune diseases.

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of any of the body's organs. The most recognizable sign of lupus is the formation of a red rash on the face that resembles a butterfly. Other symptoms include aching joints, muscle aches, and fever.

The use of NSAIDs for autoimmune diseases works to reduce pain and fever. Sometimes, pain caused by lupus can cause swelling. This swelling can also be treated with NSAID drugs.

Rheumatism

Rheumatism or rheumatoid arthritis can also be treated with NSAIDs. The drugs given will work to reduce inflammation in the joints. Drugs also reduce swelling and of course pain that usually attacks the patient every time the disease recurs.

Usually, the use of this drug is accompanied by other drugs such as DMARD (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) which also plays a role in reducing pain and joint stiffness. The dose of NSAIDs will be reduced once the patient starts taking the DMARD medication.

Unfortunately, NSAIDs do not prevent bone breakdown and cartilage deterioration and are only intended to help reduce symptoms.

Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriasis sufferers who also experience arthritis may also find treatment using NSAIDs helpful. As well as its function of relieving pain, NSAID drugs will reduce symptoms such as trembling and joint pain and stiffness.

However, NSAIDs cannot provide any significant effect in reducing the skin lesions that result from psoriasis.

NSAID side effects

In fact, NSAID drugs are still safe if used according to a doctor's prescription. However, like other drugs, NSAIDs of course also have side effects that you should be aware of.

The most commonly reported side effect of using NSAIDs is stomach pain such as stomach ulcers or stomach ulcers. It is because of this effect that NSAIDs are recommended to be taken after meals so that they can protect the stomach lining and prevent pain or nausea.

NSAIDs can also increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and raise blood pressure. Patients who also already have this condition certainly need special handling and taking a dose from a doctor.

Lupus sufferers must also be careful, because in some cases this drug can actually increase their symptoms.

Especially in people who have lupus nephritis in which the kidneys are already inflamed. Of course, the use of NSAIDs should be reconsidered so as not to worsen the condition because their effects can reduce kidney function if used continuously.

Therefore, if you have an autoimmune condition and want to use NSAID drugs, it is better to consult your doctor first so that treatment does not cause other problems for your health.