Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which class of medication is not generally used for pain relief?

1. NSAIDs

2. Parasiticides

3. Opioids

4. Anti-inflammatory drugs

The correct answer is: Parasiticides

Parasiticides are a class of medications primarily used to eliminate parasites such as worms, insects, and other organisms that can infest living hosts. Their primary role is in the treatment and prevention of parasitic infections rather than in alleviating pain. They function by targeting the biological processes of the parasites rather than addressing pain or inflammation in the host organism. In contrast, NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), opioids, and anti-inflammatory drugs are all well-established for their effectiveness in managing pain. NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals, opioids are powerful pain relievers that act on the nervous system, and anti-inflammatory drugs specifically target inflammation to reduce discomfort associated with various conditions. Thus, while these medications are designed with pain relief in mind, parasiticides do not serve this purpose, confirming that they are not generally used for pain relief.