Analgesia

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Analgesics, some of the oldest drugs known, have evolved significantly since their early use by the Sumerians for euphoric effects and the eighteenth-century use of willow bark for fever. Today, they encompass a wide range of substances, including antidepressants and ion channel blockers, with many available over the counter for self-medication. This accessibility has led to analgesics being the most misused drug class, resulting in various health issues due to side effects. This volume summarizes the current understanding of the mechanisms behind these drugs, their side effect profiles, and their clinical indications and contraindications. It also explores ongoing research into novel pain generation mechanisms and the development of new modulating compounds, spurred by advancements in molecular methods and the use of animal models focused on pathological pain. The introductory chapter discusses these critical issues, while subsequent chapters emphasize that pain is influenced not only by somatic mechanisms but also by social context, memory, and psychological factors. The book concludes by framing pharmacological strategies within a broader context, highlighting the shift towards mechanism-based approaches in pain treatment rather than purely empirical methods.