Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents in arthritis.

Aspirin remains the agent of first choice, but ibuprofen, fenoprofen, naproxen and tolmetin are useful drugs in rheumatoid arthritis. Ibuprofen and fenoprofen are also approved for use in osteoarthritis. Each shares anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties with aspirin, phenylbutazone and indomethacin. The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents have fewer minor side effects than aspirin and fewer major side effects than indomethacin or phenylbutazone. The patient must understand that drugs are but one part of a comprehensive management program.