Which term is a common reference for a pain reliever?

The term "analgesic" refers specifically to a class of medications that are designed to relieve pain without causing the loss of consciousness. Common examples of analgesics include over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, as well as prescription medications like opioids. They work by blocking pain receptors in the brain or affecting the way the brain interprets pain signals. This makes "analgesic" the most accurate term when seeking a common reference for a pain reliever.

In contrast, "antipyretic" denotes a substance that reduces fever, but it is not specifically aimed at relieving pain. "Antidepressant" refers to medications intended to treat depression and other mood disorders, which is unrelated to pain management. "Antihistamine" is used primarily to treat allergic reactions and symptoms by blocking histamine, and therefore, does not serve the purpose of pain relief.