Analgesics Overview and Classification

Analgesics Overview

• Analgesics are medications that relieve pain without inducing loss of consciousness.
• They function through multiple mechanisms to reduce or block pain sensations.

Classification of Analgesics

• Non-opioid analgesics: Include NSAIDs and acetaminophen (paracetamol).
• Opioid analgesics: Another class not detailed in this segment.
• Adjuvant analgesics: Additional supportive medications included but not elaborated here.

Non-opioid Analgesics

• Primarily composed of NSAIDs and acetaminophen.

NSAIDs

• Used to manage pain, fever, and inflammation.

Classification of NSAIDs:

• Non-selective COX inhibitors:
  • Include aspirin, diclofenac, etodolac, flurbiprofen, ibuprofen, indomethacin, ketoprofen, ketorolac, mefenamic acid, meloxicam, and naproxen.
• Selective COX-2 inhibitors:
  • Celecoxib and etoricoxib.

Mechanism of Action:

• NSAIDs work by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis through non-selective inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, decreasing inflammation and pain.

Indications for NSAIDs:

• Effective for muscle pain, dysmenorrhea, arthritis, fever, gout, and migraine relief.

Adverse Effects:

• Possible side effects include gastrointestinal ulcers, peripheral edema, myocardial infarction, gastrointestinal bleeding, and bronchoconstriction.

Contraindications:

• Should be avoided in individuals with NSAID hypersensitivity, urticaria, asthma, recent CABG surgery, and during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Drug-Drug Interactions:

• Potential interactions with ACE inhibitors, ARBs, anticoagulants, and corticosteroids.

Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)

• An over-the-counter drug used for pain relief (analgesic) and fever reduction (antipyretic).

Mechanism of Action:

• The precise mechanism remains unclear, but it inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) pathways, similar to NSAIDs.