When used properly over brief periods of time, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) rarely produce serious side effects. However, long-term usage or larger doses of NSAIDs increase the potential risk of side effects.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates that 10,000-20,000 deaths occur each year as a result of NSAID-induced gastrointestinal disorders (usually bleeding). NSAIDs are the number one cause of drug-related hospitalizations.

Common side effects of NSAIDs include:

• Upset stomach or nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Heartburn
• Unusual bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, irregular/heavy menstruation)
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or reduced hearing
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Sleeplessness
• Skin rashes
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Fluid retention, leading to swollen feet, ankles, legs or hands
• Painful urination (dysuria)
• Unusual weight gain

More severe side effects of NSAIDs include:

• Allergic reactions (sneezing, respiratory congestion, itching or skin rashes)
• High blood pressure
• Stomach bleeding
• Migraines
• Stomach ulcers (with long-term use)
• Kidney or liver problems
• Chest tightness

Some side effects occur when the patient first begins taking NSAIDs and then diminish after the patient has been taking the medication for several days. In addition, the severity of some side effects can be reduced by taking the medication with food or by choosing enteric-coated medications that do not release the NSAID into the bloodstream until it has passed through the stomach. Lowering the dosage can also be effective. Patients may also lower the risk of gastrointestinal side effects by taking over-the-counter antacids.