Analgesics: meaning, definitions and examples

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analgesics

[ˌanəlˈdʒiːzɪks ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medications

Analgesics are a type of medication used to relieve pain. They work by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain. There are different types of analgesics, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, and opioids.

Synonyms

pain medications, pain relievers, painkillers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
analgesics	Used in medical or formal contexts to refer to a broad category of drugs that relieve pain. The doctor prescribed analgesics to manage the patient’s chronic pain. Analgesics are often used after surgical procedures to ease discomfort.
painkillers	A common, informal term often used to describe both over-the-counter and prescription drugs that reduce pain; sometimes has a negative connotation due to associations with addiction. He asked the pharmacist for painkillers to help with his toothache. Painkillers can be addictive if not used properly.
pain relievers	Typically used in informal or everyday situations to describe over-the-counter or prescription drugs that alleviate pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with headaches and minor aches. Which pain reliever do you find most effective for muscle pain?
pain medications	A general term used in various contexts, both formal and informal, to describe any medication taken to relieve pain. She relies on pain medications to manage her arthritis. Pain medications can have side effects, so it’s important to follow the doctor's instructions.

Examples of usage

Many people take analgesics such as ibuprofen for headaches.
After the surgery, the doctor prescribed strong analgesics to manage the pain.
Analgesics can be purchased over-the-counter or with a prescription.
Some people are allergic to certain types of analgesics.
The nurse administered an analgesic to the patient to help with the pain.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'analgesic' comes from the Greek roots 'analgesia,' meaning 'without pain' (an- meaning 'without' and algos meaning 'pain').
The term was first used in the early 19th century to categorize medications that relieve pain.

Types of Analgesics

There are two main types: non-opioid analgesics (like acetaminophen) and opioid analgesics (like morphine), each used for different levels of pain.
Non-opioid analgesics are usually recommended for mild to moderate pain, while opioids are reserved for severe pain cases.

Pop Culture

Analgesics are often referenced in films and TV shows where characters suffer injuries or headaches, emphasizing their role in everyday life.
Commercials frequently highlight quick relief from pain, showcasing various analgesics in popular media.

Science

Research shows that analgesics can affect different pain pathways in the body, either blocking the sensation of pain or reducing inflammation.
Some analgesics can alter brain chemistry, influencing how we perceive pain rather than just numbing it.

Psychology

The perception of pain can be influenced by emotional state; for example, stress can increase the feeling of pain, while relaxation can reduce it.
Studies suggest that belief in the effectiveness of analgesics can enhance their pain-relieving effects, highlighting the mind-body connection.

Translations

Translations of the word "analgesics" in other languages:

🇵🇹 analgésicos

🇮🇳 दर्दनाशक

🇩🇪 Schmerzmittel

🇮🇩 analgesik

🇺🇦 анальгетики

🇵🇱 środki przeciwbólowe

🇯🇵 鎮痛剤

🇫🇷 analgésiques

🇪🇸 analgésicos

🇹🇷 analjezikler

🇰🇷 진통제

🇸🇦 مسكنات

🇨🇿 analgetika

🇸🇰 analgetiká

🇨🇳 止痛药

🇸🇮 analgetiki

🇮🇸 verkjastillandi

🇰🇿 анальгетиктер

🇬🇪 ანალგეტიკები

🇦🇿 analjeziklər

🇲🇽 analgésicos

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,274, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21271 namesake
21272 divinities
21273 maroon
21274 analgesics
21275 opal
21276 indurated
21277 pops
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