Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are aspirin type of analgesics and have anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and uricosuric properties without addiction liability. NSAIDs inhibit the PG synthesis by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase. Most NSAIDs inhibit both COX1 and COX2, but some newer agents like celecoxib and rofecoxib selectively inhibit only COX2. Aspirin is a good analgesic and relieves pain of inflammatory origin. Pain originating from the integument structures like muscles, bones, joints and pain in connective tissues is relieved. Salicylates have antipyretic and anti-inflammatory actions. Their effects on the respiration, acid-base and electrolyte balance and on cellular metabolism are profound in higher doses. Most NSAIDs are gastric irritants and can cause gastric ulceration on prolonged use. Aspirin also interferes with platelet aggregation. Salicylic acid applied locally is a keratolytic. Phenylbutazone has good anti-inflammatory activity but because of its toxicity it is withdrawn in many countries. Paracetamol is a good antipyretic; indomethacin, diclofenac, ibuprofen and oxicams have good analgesic, anti-pyretic and anti-inflammatory effects. Selective COX 2 inhibitors are better tolerated because of milder gastric irritation but have a prothrombotic effect which may increase the incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke. Hence many of them have been withdrawn from the market.