Historical overview of NSAIDs.

Abstract

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have become valuable therapeutic agents in the treatment of arthritic conditions. In 1971, Vane demonstrated that the primary mechanism of action of aspirin and related drugs was inhibition of synthesis of prostaglandins from arachidonic acid. Although Vane's prostaglandin hypothesis has been generally accepted, various studies have suggested that additional mechanisms may have a role in the effects of NSAIDs. With the increasing number of NSAIDs available and with recent information on the side effects associated with NSAID therapy, it becomes important to examine whether these drugs are being used in the most appropriate manner.