Non-opioid analgesics are over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications used to alleviate pain. They have become increasingly emphasized in a variety of clinical settings as a preferred, safe, and effective first-line therapy alternative to opioid medications for mild to moderate acute and chronic pain.

Non-opioid analgesics encompass the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol (acetaminophen). The NSAIDs include acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, aspirin), dipyrone (metamizole), and numerous other drugs in diverse classes.

Non-opioid analgesics include acetaminophen and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Acetaminophen inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins that may serve as mediators of pain and fever primarily in the CNS. [1] Acetaminophen is used to treat mild pain and fever; however, it does not have anti-inflammatory properties.