Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs (pronounced en-saids), are drugs used to reduce inflammation and pain. They can also lower fevers.
When you have an ache or pain, you may reach for a common over-the-counter NSAID like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Or if you have more significant pain and inflammation, your doctor may give you a prescription NSAID
Researchers set out to answer that question. A study was carried out to determine the effects of NSAIDs on thyroid lvels.
The NSAIDs tested as part of the research study were:
Over-the-Counter NSAIDS
Aspirin
Ibuprofen (Brand name: Advil)
Naproxen (Brand names: Aleve, Naprosyn, Anaprox)
Prescription NSAIDS
Salsalate (Brand names:
The researchers found that:
Ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin either as a single dose, or over a week did not change the levels of any of the hormones measured.
Various total and free thyroid hormone measurements were decreased by single doses of aspirin and salsalate and increased by meclofenamate.
Treatment for one week with aspirin or salsalate decreased total T4, total T3, free T3, and TSH. Only the salasate lowered free T4 levels,
The study confirmed that aspirin, salsalate, and meclofenamate affect total and free thyroid hormone measurements.