What Does NSAID Mean in Medical Terms?

NSAID stands for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Pain and inflammation medicine not containing steroids.

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Pain and inflammation medicine not containing steroids.

Where you will see NSAID

You will most often see NSAID in medication orders and prescriptions.

Example

A medication order might be written with “NSAID” as shorthand for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

Related abbreviations

Browse the full Medical Abbreviations guide — 5,715 entries, searchable A–Z and by specialty.

Educational reference only. This guide is for learning and quick reference. Abbreviations vary between hospitals, countries and specialties, and some are discouraged because they can be misread. Always write and interpret orders using your own institution’s approved abbreviation list, and check anything unclear with the prescriber or your local policy.