Which of the following is NOT an NSAID?

Which of the following is NOT an NSAID?

• A. Ibuprofen
• B. Naproxen
• C. Indomethacin
• D. Acetaminophen

Answer: (D)

Understanding the distinction between NSAIDs and other analgesics is key here. NSAIDs work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX), which lowers prostaglandin production in peripheral tissues and leads to anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects. The standout class includes ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin, all of which are effective at reducing inflammation due to this peripheral COX suppression. Acetaminophen, while it relieves pain and fever, does not provide meaningful anti-inflammatory effects because it primarily acts in the central nervous system and has little impact on peripheral COX enzymes. This makes it not an NSAID, even though it’s useful for pain and fever and has a different safety profile (notably liver toxicity with overdose).

Understanding the distinction between NSAIDs and other analgesics is key here. NSAIDs work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX), which lowers prostaglandin production in peripheral tissues and leads to anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects. The standout class includes ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin, all of which are effective at reducing inflammation due to this peripheral COX suppression.

Acetaminophen, while it relieves pain and fever, does not provide meaningful anti-inflammatory effects because it primarily acts in the central nervous system and has little impact on peripheral COX enzymes. This makes it not an NSAID, even though it’s useful for pain and fever and has a different safety profile (notably liver toxicity with overdose).