Anti-Inflammatory Medication: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Anti-Inflammatory Medication?
A primary care doctor or a rheumatologist (a doctor for joint and immune problems) can prescribe anti-inflammatory medicine. A pharmacist can also help if you are not sure about the right amount to take. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
These medicines lower inflammation, which is swelling in the body. One main kind is the NSAID, short for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. NSAIDs can help treat pain, swelling, and a high temperature. Another kind is the corticosteroid. It is a steroid medicine that reduces inflammation and affects the immune system, the body's defense system.
Why a doctor might recommend it
NSAIDs are commonly used for headaches, painful periods, and sprains and strains. They are also used for colds and flu with a high temperature, and for long-term pain from conditions such as arthritis. Aspirin and NSAIDs also reduce swelling from arthritis or a muscle sprain or strain. Corticosteroids may be used to treat arthritis, asthma, skin conditions such as eczema and rashes, and some kinds of cancer.
How to prepare
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you use aspirin or an NSAID from the store if you have any of these.
- Heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, or bleeding in the stomach or digestive tract.
- Other medicines you take, especially blood thinners.
- An NSAID that your provider already prescribed.
Taking NSAIDs with some other medicines can cause side effects and is not recommended. NSAIDs are not usually recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What happens during it
NSAIDs come as tablets and capsules, gels, sprays, liquids, and granules you mix with water. Do not take more than the amount recommended on the container or more than your provider tells you to take. You can eat and drink normally while taking NSAIDs. A lot of alcohol may increase the risk of side effects or irritate your stomach. Store-bought aspirin and NSAIDs are safe for most people for a short time, no longer than 10 days. Steroids are strong medicines, so people usually take them for as short a time as they can.
Recovery
Aspirin and NSAIDs can cause stomach upset or even ulcers (stomach sores) in some people. The longer you take them, the greater the chance of these side effects. If you take pain relievers on most days, tell your provider. You may need to be watched for side effects.
Risks and side effects
Common side effects of NSAIDs include an upset stomach, feeling sick, diarrhea, feeling dizzy, a rash, and headaches. Serious side effects can happen, but most are rare. They include a severe allergic reaction, stomach bleeding, and kidney problems. Signs of a severe allergic reaction include a swollen throat or tongue, a raised and itchy rash, or trouble breathing. Signs of stomach bleeding include stomach pain, pale skin, or black, sticky, tar-like stool. Signs of kidney problems include blood in your urine and swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands. Some rare side effects are serious, so you may need to get medical advice. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue, you vomit blood, or you have black, sticky, tar-like stool.
Steroids can also cause weakened bones and cataracts, an eye problem. Aspirin can cause Reye syndrome in children who have viral infections, such as chickenpox or the flu.
Who performs it
Some NSAIDs are available to buy from shops and pharmacies, but some are only available with a prescription. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you use aspirin or an NSAID from the store.
Common questions
Are NSAIDs the same as steroids?
No. The name NSAID means non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, so it is not a steroid. Corticosteroids are a different kind of medicine that is similar to hormones your adrenal glands make.
How long can I take store-bought NSAIDs?
Store-bought aspirin and NSAIDs are safe for most people for a short time, no longer than 10 days. The longer you take them, the more likely stomach upset or ulcers become.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
