Nonopioid analgesics, antipyretics, and NSAIDs

Nonopioid analgesics, antipyretics, and NSAIDs

Nonopioid analgesics, antipyretics, and NSAIDs are a broad group of pain medications. They’re discussed together because, in addition to pain control, they also produce antipyretic (fever control) and anti-inflammatory effects. These drugs may be used alone or in combination with other medications. They have a ceiling effect (maximum dose above which there’s no added benefit) and don’t cause physical dependence.

The drug classes included in this group are:

·                 salicylates (especially aspirin), which are widely used the para-aminophenol derivative acetaminophen

·                 NSAIDs

·                 the urinary tract analgesic phenazopyridine.