What defines a substance as an analgesic?

An analgesic is a substance specifically designed to alleviate pain. This classification includes various medications and compounds that target pain pathways in the body to provide relief. Analgesics can be further divided into two main categories: non-opioid analgesics (such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and opioid analgesics (such as morphine and codeine).

The primary function of an analgesic is to improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing pain, whether acute or chronic. By effectively blocking or interfering with pain signaling in the nervous system, these substances enable better management of discomfort, allowing individuals to participate in daily activities more comfortably.

While some substances may have properties that promote sleep, act as disinfectants, or reduce inflammation, these qualities do not define the primary function of an analgesic, which is solely focused on pain management.