Non-NSAID Options for Managing Pain

​Inflammation is the basis for numerous diseases and conditions while also generating pain from arthritis or injury. Pain is a billion dollar industry and anti-inflammatory treatments often offer relief. But what options exist for someone allergic to Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) or otherwise wants to avoid them?

NSAID Side Effects:

• Stomach Ulcers & Bleeding
• Allergy
• Kidney Damage & Disease
• Heartburn/GERD
• Hearing Compromise & Tinnitus
• Cardiovascular Problems & Hypertension

Harvard Researchers have identified numerous anti-inflammatory foods and supplements. NSAIDs gain their effectiveness by blocking enzymes called Cyclooxygenase, often abbreviated Cox-1 & Cox-2. Foods and supplements achieve their anti-inflammatory properties the same way. An anti-inflammatory diet is one rich in Omega-3 fatty acids such as Extra Virgin Olive Oil while avoiding saturated fats and processed foods.

Willow Bark:

​One of the most popular and effective natural anti-inflammatories has been utilized for over 6000 years. Willow bark, "Nature's Aspirin," contains Salicin, which is similar to aspirin, and an effective anti-inflammatory. Several willow bark benefits include:

• Pain Relief
• Anti-cancer
• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory

Willow bark benefits require a dosage of 120-240 mg/day salicin. It is available in tablets, capsules, powder, and liquid. While allergy to NSAIDs is not an immediate contraindication to the use of Willow bark, an allergy to aspirin is. Other contraindications include concurrent use of Oral Anticoagulants, seizure medications, Barbiturates, and other salicylate-containing products.

Turmeric:

Turmeric is a spice obtained from the Turmeric plant, often used in Asian foods such as Curry. The root contains a yellow-colored chemical known as curcumin that has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric has been utilized for years for the following:

• Seasonal Allergies Such as Hay Fever
• Pain Control for Arthritis and Joint Pain
• Anti-inflammatory
• Depression
• High Cholesterol
• Menstrual Problems

Turmeric is available as a spice; However, most people are unable to consume enough without utilizing a supplement, due to its strong flavor. Caution should be used when considering turmeric with concurrent bleeding problems, gallbladder problems or GERD. High amounts of turmeric may prevent the absorption of iron.

​Is Acetaminophen a Good Option?

Acetaminophen is also known as Tylenol. It is utilized as a pain reliever and fever reducer, for mild to moderate symptoms. What are the pros and cons of acetaminophen? Acetaminophen does not cause the stomach or intestinal ulcers as seen with NSAIDs, such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen. Common side effects of Acetaminophen include:

• Most Commonly: Rash, Nausea, and Headache.
• Hypersensitivity reactions.
• Liver or Kidney Damage.
• Thrombocytopenia (Reduced number of platelets in the blood).

Acetaminophen has strict dosage recommendations due to potential liver toxicity: 1000 mg per dose with a maximum of 4000 mg within 24 hours. Acetaminophen is often utilized in conjunction with other medications. Caution should be exercised to ensure dosage limitations.

Other Natural Choices:

Anti-inflammatory treatments are sought by many. With serious side effects and allergies limiting their use, people are turning to natural options.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Utilized as part of an anti-inflammatory diet, or as a dietary supplement, fish oils have demonstrated their efficacy. A dosage of 1000mg/day is recommended.
• Bromelain, an enzyme extracted from the stems of pineapples, has strong anti-inflammatory properties. The daily recommended dose is 1000mg.
• Ginger, a spice similar to turmeric, with anti-inflammatory components: Gingerol, Shogaol, and Paradol.

The options are numerous; Many choices have been utilized for years. Whether choosing natural options due to an allergy or to prevent unwanted side effects and risks, natural anti-inflammatories are readily accessible.