Anti-Inflammatory Medicine List Australia
Complete guide to TGA-approved anti-inflammatory medications available in Australia, including NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors, and prescription options for 2025.
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Check Medication SafetyUnderstanding Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Anti-inflammatory medications are drugs that reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling. In Australia, these medications are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and are available in both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription-only forms.
There are two main categories:
- NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) - Block enzymes that cause inflammation
- COX-2 Selective Inhibitors - Target specific inflammatory pathways with fewer gastrointestinal side effects
Complete Anti-Inflammatory Medication List
The following table includes all major anti-inflammatory medications available in Australia as of 2025:
| Generic Name | Brand Names | Type | Availability | Typical Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ibuprofen | Nurofen, Brufen, Advil | NSAID | OTC / Prescription | 200-400mg every 4-6 hours |
| Naproxen | Naprosyn, Naprogesic | NSAID | OTC / Prescription | 250-500mg twice daily |
| Diclofenac | Voltaren, Fenac | NSAID | Prescription Only | 50mg 2-3 times daily |
| Aspirin | Disprin, Aspro | NSAID | OTC | 300-600mg every 4-6 hours |
| Mefenamic Acid | Ponstan | NSAID | Prescription Only | 500mg 3 times daily |
| Ketoprofen | Orudis | NSAID | Prescription Only | 50-100mg 2-3 times daily |
| Indomethacin | Indocid | NSAID | Prescription Only | 25-50mg 2-3 times daily |
| Piroxicam | Feldene, Mobilis | NSAID | Prescription Only | 20mg once daily |
| Meloxicam | Mobic, Meloxibell | NSAID (COX-2 preferential) | Prescription Only | 7.5-15mg once daily |
| Celecoxib | Celebrex | COX-2 Selective | Prescription Only | 200mg once or twice daily |
| Etoricoxib | Arcoxia | COX-2 Selective | Prescription Only | 60-120mg once daily |
| Diclofenac (Topical) | Voltaren Emulgel | Topical NSAID | OTC / Prescription | Apply 3-4 times daily |
| Ibuprofen (Topical) | Nurofen Gel | Topical NSAID | OTC | Apply 3-4 times daily |
| Ketoprofen (Topical) | Orudis Gel | Topical NSAID | Prescription Only | Apply 2-3 times daily |
How Anti-Inflammatory Medications Work
NSAIDs Mechanism of Action
NSAIDs work by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes that produce prostaglandins - chemicals that cause inflammation, pain, and fever. There are two main COX enzymes:
COX-1
Protects stomach lining, supports platelet function, regulates kidney blood flow
COX-2
Triggered by injury or illness, produces inflammatory prostaglandins
Traditional NSAIDs (like ibuprofen, naproxen) block both COX-1 and COX-2, which is why they can cause stomach problems.
COX-2 Selective Inhibitors (like celecoxib, etoricoxib) primarily target COX-2, reducing inflammation while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects.
When to Use Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Conditions Treated
- Musculoskeletal injuries - Sprains, strains, back pain, sports injuries
- Arthritis - Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis
- Post-operative pain - After surgery or dental procedures
- Menstrual pain - Dysmenorrhea (period cramps)
- Headaches and migraines - Tension headaches, cluster headaches
- Gout - Acute gout attacks and inflammation
Workers Compensation Context
Anti-inflammatory medications are commonly prescribed for workplace injuries including:
- Manual handling injuries (back, shoulder, neck)
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Post-surgical recovery from workplace injuries
Important for Case Managers
When reviewing workers compensation claims, verify that anti-inflammatory medications are:
- Appropriate for the diagnosed injury
- Not duplicating other anti-inflammatory treatments
- Time-limited and reviewed regularly (typically 2-4 weeks)
- Not combined with other NSAIDs without medical justification
Safety and Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Stomach upset, nausea, indigestion
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Dizziness or drowsiness
- Headache
Serious Risks
Red Flags
- Gastrointestinal bleeding - Risk increases with age, alcohol use, and high doses
- Cardiovascular events - Increased risk of heart attack and stroke with long-term use
- Kidney damage - Especially in elderly or those with existing kidney disease
- Liver problems - Rare but serious hepatotoxicity
- Drug interactions - Particularly with blood thinners, SSRIs, and other medications
Who Should Avoid NSAIDs?
- History of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding
- Severe heart failure or uncontrolled hypertension
- Severe kidney or liver disease
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- Allergy to NSAIDs or aspirin
- Currently taking blood thinners (warfarin, rivaroxaban, etc.)
Common Drug Interactions
Anti-inflammatory medications can interact with many drugs. Critical interactions include:
| Drug Class | Interaction Risk | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Thinners (Warfarin, Rivaroxaban) | High Risk | Increased bleeding risk, potentially life-threatening |
| SSRIs/SNRIs (Sertraline, Venlafaxine) | High Risk | Increased bleeding risk, especially gastrointestinal |
| ACE Inhibitors (Perindopril, Ramipril) | Moderate Risk | Reduced blood pressure control, kidney function issues |
| Diuretics (Frusemide, Hydrochlorothiazide) | Moderate Risk | Reduced diuretic effect, kidney problems |
| Corticosteroids (Prednisolone, Dexamethasone) | Moderate Risk | Increased risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding |
| Other NSAIDs (Taking multiple NSAIDs) | High Risk | Significantly increased side effect risk, no added benefit |
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Check Your Medications NowChoosing the Right Anti-Inflammatory
Quick Selection Guide
For Mild Pain/Inflammation
Ibuprofen 400mg
- Available OTC
- Fast-acting (30 mins)
- Good safety profile
- Affordable
For Moderate Pain/Inflammation
Naproxen 500mg
- Longer duration (8-12 hours)
- Good for chronic conditions
- Twice-daily dosing
- Prescription required
For Stomach Sensitivity
Celecoxib 200mg
- COX-2 selective
- Lower GI side effects
- Once or twice daily
- Prescription required
For Localized Pain
Voltaren Emulgel
- Topical application
- Minimal systemic effects
- Good for joints, muscles
- Available OTC
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take two different anti-inflammatory medications together?
No, you should not take two NSAIDs together (e.g., ibuprofen + naproxen) as this significantly increases the risk of side effects without providing additional benefits. However, you can take paracetamol with an NSAID as they work through different mechanisms.
How long can I safely take anti-inflammatory medications?
For acute conditions (injuries, post-operative pain), NSAIDs are typically used for 5-14 days. For chronic conditions like arthritis, longer-term use may be necessary under medical supervision. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
Should I take anti-inflammatory medications with food?
Yes, taking NSAIDs with food or milk can help reduce stomach irritation. However, this may slightly delay the onset of pain relief. For COX-2 selective inhibitors, food is less critical but still recommended.
What's the difference between ibuprofen and naproxen?
Both are NSAIDs with similar effectiveness. The main difference is duration: ibuprofen lasts 4-6 hours (dose 3-4 times daily), while naproxen lasts 8-12 hours (dose twice daily). Naproxen may have a slightly higher cardiovascular risk with long-term use.
Are anti-inflammatory gels as effective as tablets?
Topical NSAIDs (gels, creams) can be effective for localized pain in joints and muscles close to the skin surface (knees, elbows, hands). They have fewer systemic side effects but may be less effective for deeper structures or widespread pain.
Can I take anti-inflammatory medications if I'm pregnant?
NSAIDs should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester as they can cause serious complications. Always consult your doctor. Paracetamol is generally considered safer for pain relief during pregnancy.
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