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.

This quiz explores the different types of analgesics, focusing on their classifications, mechanisms, and specific examples. Test your knowledge on non-opioid analgesics like NSAIDs and acetaminophen, as well as their roles in pain management. Enhance your understanding of pain relief medications and how they function in the body.