Analgesic:
A drug that is used primarily
to relieve pain.
Analgesics are of three basic types: (1)
Simple, nonnarcotic analgesics that relieve pain by suppressing the local production of
prostaglandins and related substances; examples are
acetaminophen,
aspirin and the large group of
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs known as
aspirin substitutes (Motrin, Advil, Naprosyn, etc.). (2)
Narcotic analgesics or opioids (
"like opium" derivatives) that relieve pain by surpressing its perception in the
brian; examples are
morphine,
codeine and
hydrocodone (natural derivatives of opium), and meperidine or pentazocine (
synthetic drug products). (3) Local anesthetics that prevent or relieve pain by
rendering sensory nerve endings insensitive to painful stimulation; an example is the urinary tract analgesic phenazzopyridine (Pyridium).
--From The Essential Guide to Prescription Drugs