Drugs classified as anti-inflammatory are typically short-acting compounds that act relatively rapidly to control symptoms. These agents can be used either short-term for the treatment of a self-limiting problem, or long-term for the treatment of a chronic medical condition. When used long-term, these medications are often utilized in conjunction with other slow-acting or long-acting medications, depending upon the disease being treated. The major categories of anti-inflammatory medications include corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and colchicine.