Which class of drug is typically used to reduce inflammation?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are primarily used to reduce inflammation. They work by inhibiting certain enzymes in the body, specifically cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2). This inhibition leads to a decrease in the production of prostaglandins, which are compounds responsible for promoting inflammation, pain, and fever. By reducing the synthesis of these substances, NSAIDs effectively alleviate the symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions, providing both analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory effects.

In contrast to NSAIDs, antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and do not have a role in reducing inflammation. Beta blockers are primarily used to manage cardiovascular conditions and are not indicated for inflammation. Antihistamines are designed to block the effects of histamine, which is involved in allergic reactions, and while they can reduce some allergic inflammation, they are not classified as anti-inflammatory drugs in the same way that NSAIDs are. Thus, NSAIDs are specifically recognized for their ability to effectively manage inflammation.