Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Poisoning

Basics

Description

  • Inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX), thereby blocking the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin
  • Typically morbidity is low when an NSAID is ingested
  • Most literature on nonselective NSAID toxicity involves ibuprofen exposure likely due to its OTC availability
  • Fatalities have been reported with large ingestions
  • Greater potential for toxicity with underlying CHF or renal failure:
    • NSAIDs cause sodium and water retention and decrease renal blood flow
    • Little overdose experience with the COX-2 inhibitors (celecoxib); treatment should be the same as for the traditional NSAIDs

Etiology

  • Nonsteroidal medications are available by prescription and over-the-counter
  • NSAIDs include:
    • Diclofenac
    • Diflunisal
    • Etodolac
    • Fenoprofen
    • Ibuprofen
    • Indomethacin
    • Ketoprofen
    • Ketorolac
    • Meclofenamate
    • Mefenamic acid
    • Meloxicam
    • Nabumetone
    • Naproxen
    • Oxaprozin
    • Piroxicam
    • Sulindac
    • Tolmetin

There's more to see -- the rest of this topic is available only to subscribers.