Final answer:
The most commonly used analgesics in hospitalized patients are opioids, which are preferred for their powerful pain-relieving properties, though they come with a risk of serious side effects and addiction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Opioids are the most commonly used analgesics in hospitalized patients because of their efficacy, rapid onset of action, and safety. They are especially preferred when over-the-counter medications, such as NSAIDs and acetaminophen, fail to relieve pain or when patients experience more severe pain scenarios.
Opioids act on the central nervous system to provide pain relief and are known for their potent analgesic effects, which make them highly effective in managing moderate to severe pain. However, while opioids are very effective, they also have the potential for serious side effects, including the risk of addiction and overdose. Therefore, their use is generally carefully monitored by healthcare professionals. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), on the other hand, are more commonly used for pain associated with inflammation and are available both over-the-counter and in higher prescription doses. They are less potent than opioids and can also cause side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues and increased risk of cardiovascular events, but generally carry a lower risk of addiction.