Any drug used to treat pain is called an analgesic. Analgesics are divided into two main categories: opiods, and everything else. An opiod is any substance, such as morphine or codeine, which targets opiod receptors in the brain. Non-opiod analgesics are generally less risky than opiods, but also less effective. This category includes familiar over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin. There are other forms of treatment for acute pain; these include direct neural stimulation and interruption of the nerves before they reach the brain.
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