Non-Narcotic vs Narcotic Analgesics: Key Differences Explained
Analgesics are substances that reduce the effect of pain without causing any mental confusion, paralysis, or any other disturbance to the nervous system. That way, your nervous system does not become imbalanced and you actually eliminate the pain. In contrast to anesthesia, analgesics do not remove the sensation of pain as anesthetics do.
Various types of analgesics
The two main categories of analgesics are:
Non-narcotic (non-addictive) analgesics
The skeleton pain that can arise due to arthritis may be relieved with this type of medication. The most commonly prescribed drugs, in this case, are aspirin and paracetamol. To stop the production of prostaglandins by chemical reactions, aspirin inhibits the absorption of a substance known as prostaglandin. As a result, pain is felt in the tissues.
Helps in reducing fever, these drugs also help prevent the coagulation of platelets. In order to prevent heart attacks, aspirin works by preventing blood clotting.
Narcotic analgesics
A prescription analgesic drug relieves pain in a patient and produces sleep at the same time. It is possible for this drug to cause coma, convulsions, and finally death when taken in excessive amounts.
Since they are derived from the opium poppy, narcotic analgesics such as Morphine are also known as opiates. Painkillers commonly used in the treatment of postoperative pain, cardiac pain, and cancer pain are called narcotic analgesics.
Further Classification Of Analgesics Based On Their “Mechanism Of Action.”
Paracetamol (acetaminophen)
NSAIDs
COX-2 inhibitors
Opioids
Alcohol
Medical cannabis
Combinations
Alternative medicine
Adjuvants
Other drugs
Below are a few of them
Paracetamol (acetaminophen): Paracetamol is an analgesic that is also known as acetaminophen. The medication treats pain and fever.
Opioids: These substances have similar effects to opium. Various derivatives of the narcotic analgesic morphine are used.
Alcohol: Alcohol is an organic compound containing a hydroxyl functional group (-OH) such as ethanol. The impacts of using alcohol for pain are diverse, including biological, mental, and social effects.
Side Effects Of Various Analgesics
Euphoria, dysphoria, agitation, seizures, hallucinations.
Lowered blood pressure and heart rate.
Muscular rigidity and contractions.
Nausea and vomiting. Non-allergic itching.
Sexual dysfunction.
Urinary retention.
Sedation.
Dizziness.
Nausea.
Vomiting.
Constipation.
Physical dependence.
Tolerance.
Respiratory depression.
Points to Remember Before Consuming Analgesic Drugs
Non-narcotic drugs such as aspirin are important. However, they should not be taken in excessive amounts.
Even though aspirin is popular, it is supposed to be toxic to the liver. Salicylic acid is formed when the peptide gets hydrolyzed in the stomach, which sometimes causes stomach bleeding. Therefore, overdosing and using it on an empty stomach should be avoided.
It is more soluble and less harmful to take aspirin salts like calcium and sodium.
It is also important to consider the type of pain when selecting an analgesic. Typical analgesics are less effective in treating neuropathic pain, whereas tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsants, which are not typically considered analgesics, are usually beneficial.
The World Health Organization (WHO) specifies mild analgesics as the first step in its pain ladder. The choice of analgesic is based partially on severity and interactions with other medications.
Conclusion
It is important to understand the difference between narcotic and non-narcotic drugs, its various side effects, and also the important points to consider before consuming such medicines. For a simple and interesting way to learn about other topics of chemistry, please register at vedantu.com or download our app.
FAQs on Analgesics Drugs: Classification, Types, and Their Effects
1. What is the primary function of an analgesic drug?
The primary function of an analgesic drug is to relieve pain without causing loss of consciousness, mental confusion, paralysis, or other disturbances to the nervous system. They are commonly known as painkillers.
2. What are the two main classifications of analgesic drugs as per the CBSE syllabus?
Analgesic drugs are broadly classified into two main categories based on their mechanism and effects:
- Non-narcotic (non-addictive) analgesics: These are used for mild to moderate pain and include drugs like aspirin and paracetamol. They often have antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties.
- Narcotic (addictive) analgesics: These are powerful painkillers used for severe pain, such as postoperative pain or pain in terminal cancer. Examples include morphine and codeine.
3. How do narcotic and non-narcotic analgesics differ in their mechanism of action?
The two classes differ significantly in how they work. Narcotic analgesics, or opioids, act on the central nervous system (CNS) by binding to specific opioid receptors, altering the perception of pain. In contrast, non-narcotic analgesics, such as NSAIDs, primarily act on the peripheral nervous system by inhibiting the production of chemical substances like prostaglandins at the site of injury, which are responsible for causing pain and inflammation.
4. What are NSAIDs and how do they function to relieve pain?
NSAID stands for Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs. They are a major class of non-narcotic analgesics. They function by blocking enzymes called cyclooxygenase (COX). By inhibiting COX enzymes, NSAIDs prevent the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are key contributors to inflammation, pain, and fever.
5. What is the key difference between an analgesic and an antipyretic?
The key difference lies in their primary therapeutic effect. An analgesic is a substance that relieves pain. An antipyretic is a substance that reduces fever. Many drugs, such as aspirin and paracetamol, possess both analgesic and antipyretic properties, making them effective for conditions like the flu, which involve both body aches and fever.
6. Why are narcotic analgesics like morphine and codeine considered addictive?
Narcotic analgesics are addictive because they bind to opioid receptors in the brain that are part of the body's reward system. This interaction produces a strong feeling of euphoria alongside pain relief. Repeated use leads to the body adapting to the drug, requiring higher doses for the same effect (tolerance) and causing severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped, which creates physical and psychological dependence.
7. What are the dual effects of a common drug like paracetamol?
Paracetamol is widely used for its dual effects. It acts as an analgesic to alleviate mild to moderate pain, such as headaches and muscle aches. It also functions as an effective antipyretic, helping to lower body temperature during a fever. However, it has very weak anti-inflammatory action compared to drugs like aspirin.
8. Why is the long-term, high-dose use of certain analgesics potentially harmful to the kidneys?
Long-term, high-dose use of some non-narcotic analgesics, particularly NSAIDs, can be harmful to the kidneys. These drugs work by inhibiting prostaglandins, which not only signal pain but also help regulate blood flow to the kidneys. Chronic inhibition can reduce this blood flow, impairing kidney function and potentially leading to chronic kidney disease over time.
9. Why is the use of aspirin generally not recommended for children?
Aspirin is generally not recommended for children and teenagers, especially during a viral illness like the flu or chickenpox. This is due to its association with Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can cause swelling in the liver and brain. Therefore, safer alternatives like paracetamol are typically used for pain and fever relief in children.
10. Are all pain-relieving drugs also anti-inflammatory? Explain with an example.
No, not all pain-relieving (analgesic) drugs are also anti-inflammatory. This is a common misconception. For instance, aspirin and ibuprofen are NSAIDs that have both strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, paracetamol is an effective analgesic and antipyretic but has very poor anti-inflammatory action, making it less suitable for treating conditions primarily caused by inflammation, like arthritis.
