Pain Relief – NSAID - POM
Prescription-strength NSAIDs are used for pain and inflammation that hasn't responded adequately to over-the-counter options, under a prescriber's supervision.
About pain relief – nsaid - pom
Prescription-only NSAIDs (such as higher-strength ibuprofen, naproxen or diclofenac) work by blocking enzymes involved in producing inflammatory chemicals in the body. Because of a higher risk of side effects at these doses, including stomach, kidney and cardiovascular effects, prescribing requires an individual risk assessment
Treatments
Symptoms
• These medicines treat pain and inflammation from conditions such as:
• Musculoskeletal pain
• Arthritis
• Acute injury that hasn't responded to standard treatment
Diagnosis
A prescriber reviews the type, severity and cause of pain, current medicines, and personal risk factors (such as stomach ulcers, kidney disease, heart disease, or asthma) to confirm the medicine is appropriate and identify the safest option and dose
Treatment
The lowest effective dose is used for the shortest necessary time, sometimes alongside a stomach-protecting medicine (such as a PPI) if there's an increased risk of stomach irritation. Regular review is important, particularly for longer courses
Prevention and self-care
• Take with food to reduce stomach irritation
• Report any stomach pain, black stools, or unusual bruising promptly
• Avoid combining with other NSAIDs or excess alcohol
• Keep to the prescribed dose and duration
• Attend follow-up reviews, especially for long-term use
• Mention all other medicines and health conditions before starting
Reviewed by Hamza Iqbal Naheed, Superintendent Pharmacist, GPhC 2209194 (check the register) · Last updated 22 September 2026