Which class of drugs is commonly used to treat inflammation and pain?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat inflammation and pain due to their ability to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body responsible for inflammation, pain, and fever. By blocking enzymes called cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2), NSAIDs effectively reduce both the inflammatory response and the associated discomfort, making them a primary choice for conditions such as arthritis, muscle pain, and other inflammatory disorders.

Corticosteroids also have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat inflammation; however, they are typically reserved for more severe inflammatory conditions and come with a host of potential side effects associated with long-term use. Antibiotics, on the other hand, are primarily utilized to treat bacterial infections and do not address pain or inflammation directly. Antidepressants are designed to treat mood disorders and may have some off-label uses for pain management, but they do not primarily function as anti-inflammatory agents.

In summary, NSAIDs are the most commonly prescribed medications specifically aimed at reducing inflammation and alleviating pain, making them the correct answer in this context.