Non-opioid pain relievers
NSAIDs and acetaminophen
Everyday pain, fever and inflammation — arthritis, headache, muscle and joint pain.
NSAIDs block COX enzymes to reduce inflammation; acetaminophen relieves pain and fever without acting on inflammation.
The 7 non-opioid pain relievers in the PTCB Top 200
| Generic | Brand | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Meloxicam | Mobic | osteoarthritis, RA |
| Ibuprofen | Advil | pain, fever, inflammation |
| Aspirin | Bayer | pain, fever, antiplatelet |
| Diclofenac | Voltaren | osteoarthritis pain |
| Naproxen | Naprosyn | pain, inflammation |
| Celecoxib | Celebrex | osteoarthritis, RA pain |
| Acetaminophen | Tylenol | pain, fever |
Tap any generic name for its full drug guide — brand↔generic, side effects, interactions and the exam tip.
What to know for the exam
- check_circleAcetaminophen is not an NSAID — it does not reduce inflammation.
- check_circleNSAIDs are taken with food to reduce stomach irritation.
- check_circleCelecoxib is COX-2 selective, which is gentler on the stomach.
- check_circleLow-dose aspirin is used for heart protection rather than pain.
Acetaminophen hides in many combination products. Adding them up is how patients accidentally exceed the daily limit and damage the liver.
NSAIDs carry boxed warnings for cardiovascular events and GI bleeding. Acetaminophen's risk is the liver.
Drill non-opioid pain relievers the way the PTCE asks them
RxReflex groups the Top 200 drugs into classes like this one, then quizzes you on brand↔generic, class, side effects and interactions. Plus a guided Learn path, pharmacy math and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Frequently asked
What drugs are in the non-opioid pain relievers class? add
Meloxicam, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Diclofenac, Naproxen, Celecoxib, Acetaminophen. All are in the PTCB Top 200.
What are non-opioid pain relievers used for? add
Everyday pain, fever and inflammation — arthritis, headache, muscle and joint pain.
How do non-opioid pain relievers work? add
NSAIDs block COX enzymes to reduce inflammation; acetaminophen relieves pain and fever without acting on inflammation.
Last reviewed August 7, 2026. For education only — not medical advice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the PTCB.