What term refers to a substance that causes lack of feeling or awareness?

The term that refers to a substance that causes lack of feeling or awareness is anesthetic. Anesthetics are medications used to induce a loss of sensation or consciousness, typically during surgical procedures. They work by blocking nerve signals in the body, preventing the brain from processing pain or sensation, which is crucial for procedures that would otherwise be intolerable to the patient.

Analgesics, while related, specifically refer to medications that relieve pain without causing a loss of consciousness or broader awareness. Anti-inflammatory drugs act to reduce inflammation, which can alleviate pain but do not numb sensation. Antipyretics are substances used to reduce fever and do not impact sensation at all. Understanding these distinctions is important in the context of sports medicine and medical practices, ensuring appropriate terminology and treatment options are selected based on the desired effects.