Some modern aspects of the mode of action of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

The modern concepts of the mode of action of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with reference to the mediators of inflammatory processes are reviewed. It seems likely that prostaglandins (E1 and E2) and the kinin system are closely associated inflammatory mediators which are responsible for maintenance of the signs and symptoms of chronic inflammatory joint disease. It is suggested that the analgesic action of aspirin-like drugs in rheumatoid arthritis is the result not only of blocking production of prostaglandins but also of limiting the increased availability of kinin precursor (kininogen).