Pain - Non-opioids

27 important questions on Pain - Non-opioids

Mild pain (acute or chronic) treatment. What other regimen can it be used in?

Non-opioids
Can be added to opioid regimen to reduce total opioid dose required

Acetaminophen reduces pain and fever (antipyretic), but does not provide what?

Anti-inflammatory effect

How does acetaminophen work?

Inhibit PG synthesis in the CNS, resulting in reduced pain impulse generation
  • Higher grades + faster learning
  • Never study anything twice
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Discover Study Smart

Acetaminophen + aspirin + caffeine

Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine

How do all NSAIDs work?

Decrease PG formation, resulting in decreased inflammation

How do the non-selective NSAIDs work?

Block synthesis of both COX enzymes.

How do the COX-2 selective NSAIDs work?

Block synthesis of COX-2 only, which causes less GI effects

Why do the non-selective NSAIDs cause MORE GI effects?

COX-1 typically protects the gastric mucosa, but when blocked it no longer protects it

How does aspirin work?

Irreversible COX-1 and 2 inhibitor and is an antiplatelet that provides cardioprotection

What risks require all Rx non-aspirin NSAIDs to have a MedGuide?

GI risk: bleeding, ulcers
CV risk: MI, stroke

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery: CI after this surgery [antiplatelet: aspirin is recommended]

What NSAIDs can be used within 14 days after birth to close a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)?

IV NSAIDs (indomethacin, ibuprofen)

List the COX-1 and 2 non-selective NSAIDs

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB)
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Ketorolac
(Toradol)
Naproxen (Aleve) 
Naproxen + esomeprazole (Vimovo)

Ibuprofen dosing for adults

OTC: 200-400 mg q4-6h
max: 1.2 g/day
limited to <10 days

Rx: 400-800 mg q6-8h
max: 3.2 g/day  

Ibuprofen dosing for pediatrics

5-10 mg/kg/dose q6-8h
max: 40 mg/kg/day

What type of side effects are high risk for indomethacin?

CNS side effects [avoid in psych conditions]

Naproxen OTC dosing for pain and fever

220 mg q8-12 hrs
1st dose can take 2 tabs
max: 3 tabs/24 hrs (600 mg)

Which COX-1 and 2 non-selective NSAID may be preferred by prescribers and patients since it can be dosed BID?

Naproxen (Aleve)

Ketorolac BBW and warnings

BBW: max combined duration IV/IM and PO/nasal is 5 days in adults
Increased bleeding, acuet renal failure, liver failure 

Ketorolac nasal spray

Prime 5x before use. Discard after use.
<65 yrs and >/= 50 kg: 1 spray in EACH nostril q6-8h
>/= 65 yrs or < 50 kg: 1 spray in ONE nostril q6-8h

Which COX-2 selective NSAID has the highest COX-2 selectivity?

Celecoxib (Celebrex)

Voltaren + misoprostol BBW

Arthrotec: avoid in females of childbearing potential unless compliant with contraceptive measures

Cardioprotective dosing for salicylate NSAIDs

81-162 mg once daily

What can be caused by salicylate overdose?

Tinnitus

What can be used for GI protection with chronic NSAIDs use?

PPIs

Side effects of salicylate NSAIDs

Dyspepsia, heartburn, bleeding, nausea

How should aspirin for cardioprotection and ibuprofen for pain, be taken together?

Take aspirin 1 hr BEFORE or 8 hrs AFTER ibuprofen

What can NSAIDs do to the levels of lithium and methotrexate?

Increase levels

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

  • A unique study and practice tool
  • Never study anything twice again
  • Get the grades you hope for
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
Trustpilot Logo