When used properly, they are usually regarded as safe, but prolonged or high dosage use might result in gastrointestinal distress, liver or kidney damage, and other negative effects. Novox may have a lesser risk of these adverse effects than opioids, which can lead to drowsiness, respiratory depression, and addiction. Novox may also have a decreased risk of these adverse effects in comparison to corticosteroids, which can lead to weight gain, increased thirst and urination, and other metabolic abnormalities.