Anti-inflammatory describes any agent, usually pharmacological, that interrupts or minimizes the inflammatory response (see inflammation). Inflammation is our body’s natural response to insult, injury and infection and how we repair our injured tissues. You may question why would we ever want to stop this apparently healing process? That is a good question and can be discussed in the future. Medications that are classified as anti-inflammatories are divided into two basic groups. The first is the group of cortisone-type medicines. This is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that is the strongest of all the anti-inflammatory medications. This group that includes the cortisone family of medications: Cortisone, hydrocortisone, prednisone, medrol, methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, betamethasone, etc. are all anti-inflammatories use to treat various conditions that are characterized by inflammation. The second group of anti-inflammatories are the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories. This large group of popular medications, available both over-the-counter and by prescription, are headed by the grandfather of them all, aspirin. Aspirin, a derivative of the willow tree, holds a distinguished place in the history of medicine and pharmacology. It was the very first medication synthesized in the chemical laboratory, rather than simply extracted from naturally-occurring plants. Aspirin is a very effective anti-inflammatory and has additional pharmacological effects as well (see aspirin). This group of anti-inflammatories are simply termed a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, or by their acronym NSAIDs, and include numerous medications that have become household terms such as Ibuprofen, Aleve, Advil, Motrin, etc. These medications are often available over-the-counter; however, this is not to be considered evidence that they are safe and harmless, as their are risks involved with all medications. In addition to their anti-inflammatory properties, aspirin and some of its relatives have anticlotting properties, side-pain properties and anti-fever benefits. Major side effects include serious gastric ulceration, irritation and bleeding. Therefore, these medications should always be taken with food and stopped at the first sign of stomach upset. They should certainly be avoided in anybody who already has a history of gastritis, gastric ulcer, GERD or other GI problems. Reye’s Syndrome is another condition associated with aspirin use.