1. A compound capable of producing analgesia, i.e., one that relieves pain by altering perception of nociceptive stimuli without producing anesthesia or loss of consciousness. SYN: analgetic (1). 2. Characterized by reduced response to painful stimuli. SYN: antalgic.
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an·al·ge·sic -'jē-zik, -sik adj relating to, characterized by, or producing analgesia
analgesic n an agent for producing analgesia
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1. n. a drug that relieves pain. Mild analgesics, such as aspirin and paracetamol, are used for the relief of headache, toothache, and mild rheumatic pain. More potent narcotic (or opioid) analgesics, such as morphine and pethidine, are used only to relieve severe pain since these drugs may produce dependence and tolerance (see also narcotic, opiate). Some analgesics, including aspirin, indometacin, and phenylbutazone, also reduce fever and inflammation and are used in rheumatic conditions (see also NSAID).
2. adj. relieving pain.
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an·al·ge·sic (an″əl-jeґzik) 1. relieving pain. 2. not sensitive to pain. an agent that alleviates pain without causing loss of consciousness.Medical dictionary. 2011.