An estimated 17 million Americans take NSAIDs daily for conditions such as:

Heart patients should be aware that aspirin is the only NSAID that can be helpful to the cardiovascular system because of its mild antiplatelet properties (which prevent the formation of blood clots). Daily low doses of aspirin are a common component of the treatment plans for patients at high risk for a heart attack or ischemic stroke, but no other NSAID can be substituted for this purpose. In fact, other NSAIDs, such as naproxen, have been shown to interfere with the antiplatelet effect of aspirin and should only be used with a physician's supervision among people who are on low-dose aspirin therapy.

Due to the potential for serious cardiovascular complications associated NSAIDS, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that doctors view the benefits and risks before prescribing a pain killer. This is particularly true when prescribing medications for chronic pain in patients with or at risk for heart disease. In general, it is recommended that COX-2 drugs be given to patients who have no other alternative for treatment. In addition, individuals should be given the lowest recommended dosage for the shortest length of time