Analgesic drugs: Analgesic

analgesic, any drug that relieves pain selectively without blocking the conduction of nerve impulses, markedly altering sensory perception, or affecting consciousness. This selectivity is an important distinction between an analgesic and an anesthetic. Analgesics belong to one of the major groups of drugs in use today, finding application in the treatment of a wide array of abnormalities whereby the principal objective is alleviation of pain. Chronic and steady, or acute, pain lowers the quality of life for an individual and is thus important for effective relief. Analgesics mainly work through a number of mechanisms aimed at reducing inflammation or changing the perception of pain by the brain. They relieve pain without loss of subsequent ... Learn about different classes of analgesics, medicines that are used to relieve pain. Compare common analgesics such as NSAIDs, opioids, acetaminophen, and more. Analgesic combination products contain at least one analgesic in combination with another medicine or medicines. An analgesic is the name given to a medicine that relieves pain without putting you to sleep or making you lose consciousness. Analgesics may also be known as painkillers or pain relievers.