Anti-inflammatories are medications used to reduce inflammation in the body, whether caused by injuries, chronic diseases or autoimmune conditions. There are different types of anti-inflammatories, each with unique mechanisms of action and specific side effects. In this article, we will explore the 10 most common types of anti-inflammatories and their effects on the body.
1. NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
NSAIDs are a group of medications widely used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. They work by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which is responsible for the production of prostaglandins, substances that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Some examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin).
Side Effects of NSAIDs
Despite their anti-inflammatory benefits, NSAIDs can cause side effects. such as gastric irritation, stomach ulcers, kidney damage and increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. It is important to use them with caution and under the supervision of a health professional.
2. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are synthetic hormones that mimic the anti-inflammatory properties of natural hormones produced by the adrenal glands. They are commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and autoimmune diseases. Examples of corticosteroids include prednisone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone.
Side effects of corticosteroids
Despite their effectiveness in reducing inflammation, corticosteroids can have significant side effects. long-term, such as weight gain, hypertension, diabetes, osteoporosis, and immune system suppression. It is recommended to use them in low doses and for short periods of time.
3. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) Inhibitors
COX-2 inhibitors are a class of anti-inflammatory drugs designed to selectively inhibit the COX-2 enzyme, reducing the production of inflammatory prostaglandins without affecting the COX-1, which plays an important role in gastric protection. Celecoxib is an example of a widely used COX-2 inhibitor.
Side effects of COX-2 inhibitors
Although COX-2 inhibitors may be less more likely to cause gastric irritation than traditional NSAIDs, they are also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. It is recommended to use them with caution in patients with cardiovascular risk factors.
4. Glucocorticoids
Glucocorticoids are a subtype of corticosteroids that have anti-inflammatory and regulatory effects on the immune system. They are used to treat inflammatory conditions, allergies, asthma, and autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Examples of glucocorticoids include hydrocortisone, prednisone, and methylprednisolone.
Side effects of glucocorticoids
Like other corticosteroids, glucocorticoids can cause a wide range of side effects, such as weight gain, sleep disorders, hypertension, osteoporosis and suppression of the immune system. It is recommended to avoid prolonged use and maintain constant monitoring of adverse effects.
5. Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors
PDE4 inhibitors are a class of anti-inflammatory drugs that act by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase-4, responsible for the degradation of cyclic AMP, an intracellular messenger involved in the regulation of the inflammatory response. Apremilast is an example of a PDE4 inhibitor used in the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Side effects of PDE4 inhibitors
PDE4 inhibitors can cause side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, headache and depression. It is recommended to closely monitor the tolerability of these medications and adjust the dose as necessary to minimize adverse effects.
6. Biological response modifying agents
Biological response modifying agents, also known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), are medications used to modulate the immune response in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Examples of biological response modifying agents include methotrexate, etanercept, and adalimumab.
Side effects of biological response modifying agents
These medications can have serious side effects, such as increased risk of infections, injection site reactions, and even increased risk of developing certain types of cancer. It is essential to use these drugs under the supervision of a specialist and continuously monitor adverse effects.
7. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists are biological drugs that act by blocking the action of TNF, a proinflammatory cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as arthritis. rheumatoid and Crohn's disease. Examples of TNF antagonists include infliximab, adalimumab, and etanercept.
Side effects of TNF antagonists
TNF antagonists may increase the risk of opportunistic infections, the injection site, allergic reactions and hematological disorders. It is crucial to closely monitor side effects and perform screening tests to prevent serious complications.
8. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) inhibitors
Interleukin-1 (IL-1) inhibitors are biological drugs that block the action of the cytokine interleukin-1, involved in inflammatory and autoimmune processes. . They are used in the treatment of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and Mediterranean familial fever. Examples of IL-1 inhibitors include anakinra and canakinumab.
Side effects of interleukin-1 inhibitors
IL-1 inhibitors can cause reactions in the injection site, pain, redness, swelling and increased risk of infections. It is recommended to report any adverse symptoms to the doctor and carry out regular follow-up to detect possible complications.
9. Chemokine receptor antagonists
Chemokine receptor antagonists are drugs that inhibit the action of chemokines, proteins involved in the migration of inflammatory cells to sites of injury. They are used in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Examples of chemokine receptor antagonists include maraviroc and plerixafor.
Side effects of chemokine receptor antagonists
Chemokine receptor antagonists may be associated with adverse effects. side effects such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, fatigue and allergic reactions. It is advisable to follow the doctor's instructions to minimize the risks and improve the tolerability of the treatment.
10. Statins
Statins are drugs used mainly to reduce blood cholesterol levels, but they have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties by modulating the immune response and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Some studies suggest that statins may be beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
Side effects of statins
Statins can cause side effects such as muscle pain, liver damage, increased blood sugar and increased risk of diabetes. It is recommended to closely monitor liver and musculoskeletal function in patients receiving treatment with statins.
In conclusion, anti-inflammatories are a fundamental tool in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, but it is important to take into account their different types. and side effects to use them safely and effectively. You should always follow the recommendations of a health professional and be alert to any adverse symptoms that may arise during treatment with these medications.