Antiphlogistika

Antiphlogistika, commonly known as anti-inflammatory drugs, refer to agents that suppress inflammation. The term is used in historical and some pharmacological contexts; in modern usage the term anti-inflammatory drugs covers the broad class of medicines designed to reduce inflammation, pain, and fever. They are used in a range of conditions from acute injuries to chronic autoimmune diseases.

Categories include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, and aspirin; COX-2 selective inhibitors like celecoxib; corticosteroids such as prednisone and dexamethasone; and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic agents used in autoimmune diseases. These drugs differ in mechanisms, onset, duration, and side effects.

Mechanism: NSAIDs inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), reducing prostaglandin synthesis and inflammation. Corticosteroids alter gene expression to suppress multiple inflammatory pathways. DMARDs and biologics interfere with immune cell function or cytokines, reducing chronic inflammation. Together, they decrease swelling, pain, and tissue damage in many inflammatory disorders.

Indications: relief of pain and fever, and treatment of inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, bursitis, tendinitis, dermatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Selection depends on disease, patient factors, risk of adverse effects, and need for rapid relief versus long-term control.

Adverse effects and cautions: NSAIDs can cause gastrointestinal ulcers, bleeding, kidney impairment, and cardiovascular risk; COX-2 inhibitors carry similar risks with less GI toxicity in some contexts. Corticosteroids can cause metabolic disturbances, osteoporosis, and infections with long-term use. Many antiphlogistics interact with other drugs and are contraindicated in certain conditions such as peptic ulcer disease or severe renal impairment.