Non-Narcotic Analgesics NSAIDs

Non-narcotic analgesics, unlike the NSAIDs, have little or no anti-inflammatory activity. They have a therapeutic advantage over narcotic analgesics in that they do not cause physical dependence or tolerance. 

Ketorolac is, hke several other NSAIDs, promoted as a non-narcotic analgesic. This is merely a marketing ploy, which does not reflect any special characteristics, except that it is one of many NSAIDs that can be given parent-erally. A pyrrolizine carboxylic acid derivative, it is strnc-turally and pharmacologically related to tolmetin, zomepirac, and indometacin. The trometamol salt of ketorolac enhances its solubility and allows parenteral administration single intramuscular injections are better tolerated than morphine. 

Pharmacologic management of pain involves administering pain medication to relieve the patient s pain. These include non-narcotic analgesics, nonsterioidal anti-inflammatory dmgs (NSAIDs), narcotic analgesics, and salicylates. 

Non-narcotic analgesics (see chart) are used to treat mild to moderate pain. Many of these medications are not addictive and available over-the-counter. Non-narcotic analgesics are used to treat headaches, menstmal pain (dysmenor-rheal), pain from inflammation, minor abrasions, muscular aches and pain, and mild-to-moderate arthritis. Non-narcotic analgesics also lower elevated body temperature (antipyretic). Non-narcotic analgesics include acetaminophen and NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, and COX-2 inhibitors), which were discussed in Chapter 12. 

Non-narcotic (nonopioid) analgesics or NSAIDs, e.g. paracetamol, ibuprofen, diclofenac. (Ch. 15) Where these fail after using the full dose range, proceed to drugs for ... 

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