INDISCRIMINATE USE OF NIMESULIDE

Abstract

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most prescribed and sold class of medications in the world. They are used to prevent and/or hinder an inflammatory process caused by an infection or injury. Nimesulide appeared in 1985 and was sold in more than 50 countries. Due to its potential therapeutic, this medicine ends up being used on a large scale in Brazil. Its mechanism of action is associated with the inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes, preferably COX-2. The lower affinity for COX-1 reduces the adverse effects that NSAIDs can cause. However, over the years, some scientific studies have demonstrated the presence of a serious adverse reaction: gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, hepatic, cerebrovascular, renal, thrombotic problems are evident. , gestational and fetal, increasing the morbidity and mortality rate. It is in this circumstance that the importance of the pharmacist's role comes into play, assuming an essential role in evaluating and guiding the patient regarding the pharmacotherapy prescribed by the doctor.