CVS Pharmacy Technician Certification Practice Test

Which medications are classified as analgesics?

1. Aspirin and Ibuprofen

2. Amoxicillin and Penicillin

3. Atenolol and Metoprolol

4. Diphenhydramine and Loratadine

The correct answer is: Aspirin and Ibuprofen

Analgesics are medications specifically designed to relieve pain. Aspirin and ibuprofen are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that function by reducing inflammation and alleviating pain, making them effective choices in managing mild to moderate discomfort. Aspirin also has the additional benefit of acting as an antipyretic, which helps reduce fever, while ibuprofen is often favored for its effectiveness in muscle pain, headaches, and other forms of pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The other options do not belong to the analgesic category. Amoxicillin and penicillin are antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections, not pain management. Atenolol and metoprolol are beta-blockers, primarily used for managing cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure and heart rhythm disorders. Lastly, diphenhydramine and loratadine are antihistamines, used to alleviate allergy symptoms rather than providing pain relief. Thus, the classification of analgesics distinctly pertains to the pain-relieving properties offered by medications like aspirin and ibuprofen.