Anti-inflammatory medicines

Inflammation is a natural defence mechanism of the body to help it fight off infection and repair injury. External signs of inflammation include redness, swelling, heat and pain. Sometimes a medical condition can cause inflammation inside the body. Whilst inflammation helps to protect the body, long-term (chronic) inflammation can cause problems. Corticosteroids (steroids), such as hydrocortisone and budesonide, can reduce inflammation in conditions like eczema and Crohn's disease. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, diclofenac and naproxen are used to reduce pain caused by inflammation in muscles and joints.