Antipyretics

Definition

Antipyretics are medications used to reduce fever by acting on the hypothalamus to regulate body temperature. They are commonly included in nonopioid analgesics and are essential for managing fevers associated with infections or other medical conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Common antipyretics include acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
2. They work by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins, which play a key role in fever production.
3. Antipyretics can be administered orally, rectally, or intravenously depending on the specific drug and patient needs.
4. Overuse or incorrect dosing of antipyretics, particularly acetaminophen, can lead to serious liver damage.
5. Antipyretics are often combined with other drugs to provide both pain relief and fever reduction.

Review Questions

• What is the primary mechanism of action for antipyretics?
• Name two common drugs classified as antipyretics.
• What are potential risks associated with overuse of antipyretic medications?

Related terms

Analgesics: Medications that relieve pain without causing loss of consciousness.

Prostaglandins: Lipid compounds that have diverse hormone-like effects in animals, including involvement in inflammation and fever.

Hypothalamus: A region of the brain responsible for regulating body temperature among other functions.