Anti-inflammatory agent

An agent that reduces inflammation

Anti-inflammatory agents are substances that reduce inflammation, a biological response to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. Inflammation is a protective response involving immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators. The primary purpose of inflammation is to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, clear out necrotic cells and tissues damaged from the original insult and the inflammatory process, and to initiate tissue repair.

Types of Anti-inflammatory Agents

Anti-inflammatory agents can be broadly classified into two categories:

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are a class of drugs that provide analgesic (pain-reducing) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects, and, in higher doses, anti-inflammatory effects. They work by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins, compounds that mediate inflammation. Common NSAIDs include ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that are produced in the adrenal cortex and used as anti-inflammatory agents. They mimic the effects of hormones your body produces naturally in your adrenal glands. When prescribed in doses that exceed your body's usual levels, corticosteroids suppress inflammation. Examples include prednisone, dexamethasone, and hydrocortisone.

Mechanism of Action

Anti-inflammatory agents work by different mechanisms to reduce inflammation:

• Inhibition of Prostaglandin Synthesis: NSAIDs inhibit the COX enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are mediators of inflammation.
• Suppression of Immune Response: Corticosteroids suppress the immune system by reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines and inhibiting the function of immune cells.

Clinical Uses

Anti-inflammatory agents are used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis
• Autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis
• Allergic reactions

Side Effects

While effective, anti-inflammatory agents can have side effects:

• NSAIDs: Gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers and bleeding, increased risk of heart attack or stroke, and kidney damage.
• Corticosteroids: Weight gain, osteoporosis, diabetes, increased risk of infections, and mood changes.

Also see

• Analgesic
• Antipyretic
• Immunosuppressive drug
• Inflammation