Final answer:
NSAIDs, including common drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen, are the therapeutic class of analgesics that offer analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects. They are widely available and can also be prescribed in higher doses for stronger pain management.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the categories of analgesic medications, NSAIDs include agents that are considered a therapeutic class of analgesics. NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are a diverse group of compounds that have antipyretic (fever reducing), analgesic (pain relieving), and anti-inflammatory properties. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are prominent examples available over the counter and can also be prescribed in higher doses.
Opioid medications are another type of prescription analgesics that are very effective pain relievers but carry risks of addiction, abuse, and overdose. Local anesthetics and alpha2 agonists are also used to manage pain, but NSAIDs are specifically recognized for their therapeutic class of analgesic effects.