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Research & Reviews: A Journal of Pharmacognosy Review Article

Pharmacological Comparison of Turmeric and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Pain Relief

  1. Varma Vishnu Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Rai University, Ahmedabad
  2. Parmar Harshul Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Rai University, Ahmedabad
  3. Shubham Singh Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Rai University, Ahmedabad

Abstract

Pain is one of the most frequently encountered clinical symptoms affecting millions globally and is typically treated pharmacologically with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, long-term use of NSAIDs is associated with adverse effects such as gastrointestinal, renal, and cardiovascular issues. In recent years, turmeric and its main active compound, curcumin, have received considerable attention for their reported anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties as natural therapeutic options. This review seeks to critically analyze and compare NSAIDs and turmeric based on their pharmacological characteristics, including mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, clinical effectiveness, safety profiles, and potential roles in managing various pain conditions. NSAIDs act mainly by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and decreasing prostaglandin production, which contributes both to their therapeutic effects and side effects. Conversely, turmeric influences multiple molecular targets such as NF-κB and various cytokines, resulting in a broader and potentially milder anti-inflammatory effect. Though curcumin’s poor bioavailability poses a limitation, strategies like using adjuvants, liposomal carriers, and nanoparticles have enhanced its therapeutic value. While turmeric may not deliver the rapid pain relief NSAIDs provide, clinical studies indicate it offers a good safety profile and effectively alleviates chronic inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, this review considers the implications of incorporating turmeric into standard therapeutic practices and highlights the necessity for standardized products and multicenter clinical trials to confirm its effectiveness. In summary, findings suggest that turmeric could serve as a complementary or alternative option to NSAIDs, especially for individuals vulnerable to NSAID-related side effects.

Keywords

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