Posted on Mar 6, 2009

Like all medicines, these drugs can cause side effects. However, the side effects usually are not severe and are not experienced very often. Common side effects of prescription NSAIDs may include the following: Dizziness or headache Nausea, excess gas, diarrhea or constipation Extreme tiredness or weakness Dry mouth Serious side effects of prescription NSAIDs may include the following: Allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the lips, tongue or face Muscle cramps, numbness or tingling Rapid weight gain Black, bloody or tarry stools Blood in urine or vomit Decreased hearing or ringing in the ears Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice) Abdominal cramping, heartburn or indigestion In addition to the side effects listed above, people taking a COX-2 inhibitor may be at risk for the following side effects: Swelling or water retention Skin rash or itching "Flu-like" symptoms Unusual bruising or bleeding Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) Call your doctor as soon as possible if your side effects become severe. People who take NSAIDs increase their risk for severe bleeding in their stomachs. They may also be at risk for heart attacks and strokes. These risks gets worse if they take higher doses and/or if they take these medicines for a long period of time. Patients who need to take pain medicine for longer than a week should discuss this risk and explore other pain treatment options with their family doctor.