The two types of anti-inflammatory drugs; steroids and non-steroids. The steroids, such as hydrocortisone, prednisone, and other similar compounds, are prescription drugs that act by inhibiting the enzyme phospholipase A2. Phospholipase A2 stimulates the release of arachidonic acid from the membrane phospholipids. Hence, inhibition of this reaction will result in a decreased supply of arachidonic acid for eicosanoid synthesis. Some eicosanoids act as mediators of inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are those that inhibit the cyclooxygenase reaction and include common over the counter drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
Inflammation-reducing medications, known as anti-inflammatory drugs, encompass two primary categories: corticosteroid medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).