Final answer:
NSAIDs are drugs used to treat acute musculoskeletal conditions, such as muscle strains and tendinitis, by relieving pain, reducing fever, and decreasing inflammation. They include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, but can have serious side effects like gastrointestinal issues and increased heart attack risk. First-aid steps for musculoskeletal injuries involve rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
The classification of drugs used to treat acute musculoskeletal conditions is NSAIDs. Musculoskeletal disorders are ailments that affect the muscles, bones, and joints, and can be caused by acute injury, overuse, or chronic conditions. Muscle strains occur when muscles are overstretched or torn, while tendinitis is the inflammation of tendons due to overuse or injury.
NSAIDs include medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, which are known to reduce pain, decrease fever, and, in higher dosages, diminish inflammation. However, caution must be exercised because NSAIDs can lead to an increased risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeds, heart attack, and kidney disease. For minor musculoskeletal injuries, first-aid steps include resting the affected area, applying ice to reduce swelling, compression, and elevation.
Aspirin is one of the commonly used NSAIDs that not only relieves pain but also prevents blood clots. This makes it a versatile drug although regular use can result in undesirable consequences such as reduced ability to fight infection due to suppressed inflammation. As people age, changes occur in cells that might compromise their functionality, leading to chronic diseases and musculoskeletal disorders.