What is the primary function of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are primarily designed to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. They work by inhibiting the enzymes responsible for producing prostaglandins, which are compounds that contribute to inflammation, pain, and fever. By lowering the levels of these substances, NSAIDs effectively minimize the inflammatory response and relieve associated discomfort.

This reduction in inflammation is crucial in various conditions, such as arthritis, muscle injuries, and other painful inflammatory disorders. While NSAIDs do provide pain relief, their key function is closely tied to their ability to alleviate inflammation, making them invaluable in managing acute and chronic pain conditions.

Although other options suggest functions such as sedation, tissue healing, or infection prevention, these are not the primary roles of NSAIDs. Sedation is more characteristic of certain analgesics or anesthetics, tissue healing is influenced by a variety of factors including rest and nutrition, and infection prevention is typically associated with antibiotics rather than NSAIDs. Thus, the primary and most significant function of NSAIDs remains their ability to reduce both inflammation and pain.