ABSTRACT
The adverse effects of aspirin, especially the gastric irri tation that occurs when large doses are employed, have led to the search for alternative compounds. Starting with ibuprofen in 1974, several drugs with aspirin-like proper ties, designated nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), have been approved for use in the U.S. for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have become the most frequently prescribed drugs, and within the last 10 years there has been a proliferation in the number of new NSAIDs (1,2). These drugs make up a heterogenous group of compounds that share certain therapeutic actions and side effects but that may be structurally dis similar (Table 58-1) (3). Although aspirin is an NSAID, this term is usually used to designate the newer aspirin substitutes.
