NSAIDs: behind the mechanisms of action.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a heterogeneous group of compounds. These heterogeneous agents have a similar therapeutic action for the treatment of pain, fever and inflammation. The major mechanism of action of NSAIDs is the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX), the enzyme catalysing the synthesis of prostaglandins (PGs). Appropriate and effective treatment for migraine depends upon an accurate diagnosis. The goals of treatment are amelioration of the symptoms of an acute attack and prevention of further attacks.