Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
OxPARC

Alert Coronavirus / COVID-19

If you have a new continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss or change to your sense of taste or smell, do not come to our hospitals. Follow the national advice on coronavirus (COVID-19).

Please find information on our services and visiting restrictions in our COVID-19 section.

Patients and visitors must wear a face covering in our hospitals.

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Anti-inflammatories

Ibuprofen and similar anti-inflammatory medicines are classed as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), indicating that they treat inflammation and the pain it causes without having to use steroids.

How we use NSAIDs

  1. To treat pain
    NSAIDs can be taken now and then, or “as required”, up to a maximum daily amount.
  2. To treat inflammation
    These drugs must be taken in the way prescribed (eg 2 or 3 times per day every day) and not as required. Only when the prescribed regimen has been followed for a two week period will NSAIDs block the causes of chronic inflammation. If taken now-and-then, inflammation builds back up between doses.

Which NSAIDs we use

  • Ibuprofen (also known as neurofen)
  • Naproxen (naprosyn)
  • Diclofenac (voltarol)
  • Piroxicam (feldene)

NSAIDs and methotrexate

We often prescribe these medications at the same time as methotrexate. For further information on NSAIDS visit the link below:

If you have any questions about your medication, we can be contacted via our advice line.