An analgesic is a type of medication used to relieve pain. These drugs work by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain or by interfering with the brain's interpretation of those signals. Analgesics can be classified into two main categories: non-opioid analgesics, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, and opioid analgesics, like morphine and codeine. Analgesics are commonly used to treat various types of pain, including headaches, muscle aches, and arthritis. They can be taken in different forms, such as tablets, capsules, or topical creams. While effective for pain relief, it is important to use analgesics as directed to avoid potential side effects or dependency, especially with opioids.