Which analgesic category is often used for mild pain relief and inflammation?

The category of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is specifically designed to provide relief for mild to moderate pain as well as reduce inflammation. This is particularly beneficial in conditions where pain is accompanied by swelling, such as arthritis or sports injuries. NSAIDs function by inhibiting the enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) responsible for the production of prostaglandins, substances in the body that promote inflammation, pain, and fever.

Unlike narcotics, which are typically used for more severe pain and carry a risk of dependency, NSAIDs are accessible and have a lower potential for abuse. They are commonly available over-the-counter and can also be prescribed in stronger dosages if necessary. The property of inflammation reduction is a crucial aspect of NSAIDs, differentiating them from non-narcotics that may focus primarily on pain relief without addressing inflammation.

Muscle relaxants, while they may alleviate discomfort from muscle spasms, do not directly target inflammation or mild pain in a broad sense, making them less applicable for general pain relief compared to NSAIDs. Therefore, NSAIDs are the preferred choice for addressing mild pain and inflammation effectively.