Depending upon mechanism of nsaid action involved the drugs can be specifically used to achieve the desired effects.
The NSAIDs have been proven to block the synthesis of prostaglandins by inhibition of the enzyme cyclo oxygenase.
Cyclo-oxygenase (prostaglandin synthetase) is the enzyme involved in the cell membrane injury related destruction of phospholipids to arachidonic acid, degradation of arachidonic acid to prostanoids—Cyclic endoperoxide precursors of prostaglandins.
In addition, the NSAIDs also actively inhibit neutrophil migration and lymphocyte responsiveness which are also part of process of inflammation, not mediated through prostaglandins.
These are involved in the mechanism of nsaid action related with inflammation, viz, congestion (vasodilatation), pain, fever, swelling, etc. Suppression of these effects is the main mechanism of action.