Prab at 00:20, 2 May 2023

2023-05-02T00:20:49Z

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'''Analgetics''' or '''analgesics''' refer to a class of [[drug]]s designed to alleviate [[pain]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/analgesic|title=Analgesic {{!}} Definition of Analgesic by Lexico|website=Lexico Dictionaries {{!}} English|language=en|access-date=2019-10-06}}</ref> These drugs are commonly known as '''painkillers'''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/analgesic|title=Thesaurus results for ANALGESIC|website=www.merriam-webster.com|language=en|access-date=2019-10-06}}</ref>

Analgesics exert their effect on the [[nervous system]] and differ in their mode of action, strength, and potential side effects. Some painkillers, such as [[Opioid|opioids]], may lead to [[addiction]] if used over an extended period. Others, when consumed in excess, can have detrimental [[Adverse effect (medicine)|side effects]], such as liver damage from overuse of [[paracetamol]].

== Types of Analgesics ==

Several types of analgesics are available, each with distinct mechanisms of action:

=== Paracetamol ===
[[Paracetamol]], also known as acetaminophen, is a common over-the-counter pain reliever. It is effective for mild to moderate pain and has fewer side effects compared to NSAIDs. However, high doses can cause liver damage.

=== Opiates ===
[[Opiate]]s are a type of powerful painkiller that includes drugs such as morphine and codeine. They are often used for severe pain. Opiates work by binding to specific proteins called opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and gastrointestinal tract. However, long-term use can lead to dependence and addiction.

=== NSAIDs ===
[[NSAID]]s, or Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, include commonly used drugs like [[aspirin]] and [[ibuprofen]]. They work by reducing the production of prostaglandins, substances that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body. While generally safe for short-term use, long-term use or high doses can lead to gastrointestinal ulcers or kidney problems.

=== COX-2 Inhibitors ===
[[COX-2 inhibitors]] are a type of NSAID that selectively block the COX-2 enzyme. This enzyme plays a key role in causing inflammation and pain in the body. COX-2 inhibitors tend to cause fewer stomach side effects than traditional NSAIDs.

== See Also ==
* [[Pain management]]
* [[Chronic pain]]

== External links ==
* [http://www.pain.org International Association for the Study of Pain]

[[Category:Analgesics]]
[[Category:Drugs]]
[[Category:Pain management]]
== References ==
<references />
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Analgesic - Revision history

Prab at 00:20, 2 May 2023