Ibruprofen

• Ibruprofen is often used by people suffering from arthritis who can't tolerate aspirin, which is another NSAID that is known to cause upset stomach in some people, according to the Mayo Clinic. It's generally used to take the edge off of pain, alleviate the symptoms of fever and decrease inflammation. Some common brands are Advil and Motrin.
  
  

Aspirin

• Another common over-the-counter NSAID, aspirin, has been around since the turn of the last century. This drug was introduced to curb minor itching, ease swelling and reduce fever symptoms. Over the years, it has been advised that children not take this type of NSAID because it puts kids at greater risk for a brain and liver condition called Reye's Syndrome, according to the Stanford University School of Medicine.
  
  

Acetaminophen

• Acetaminophen is another common NSAID, which is commonly known by the brand name Tylenol. Stanford University School of Medicine says it's known to be an alternative to aspirin for parents who need to reduce fever or mild pain in their children but can't take other NSAIDs due to the health risks in children.
  
  

COX-II Inhibitors

• A relatively new NSAID, COX-II inhibitors, require a doctor's prescription. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, this type of NSAID isn't as irritating on the GI tract, but research indicates it may increase the likelihood of a heart attack in some people. Current brand namess include Celebrex and Bextra.
  
  

Topical

• The NSAIDs mentioned above are all taken by mouth, but some come in cream or gel form, which are known as topical NSAIDs. Many of the oral NSAIDs, like naproxen and ibruprofen, can be developed into a cream form by a pharmacist. It's believed these creams offer temporary relief from pain associated with arthritis, and the National Institutes of Health reports that these creams produce fewer side effects than NSAIDs that are taken by mouth.