AEMCA Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common opioid?

1. Aspirin

2. Ibuprofen

3. Oxycodone

4. Acetaminophen

The correct answer is: Oxycodone

Oxycodone is a widely recognized opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain. It operates by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, effectively altering the way the body perceives and responds to pain. As an opioid, its effectiveness in pain management stems from its ability to produce analgesia (pain relief) while also possessing sedative properties, although it can also lead to side effects such as respiratory depression and potential for dependency. In contrast, aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen are not classified as opioids. Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting certain enzymes involved in inflammation and pain signaling. Ibuprofen is also an NSAID with similar functions, reducing inflammation and pain through different biochemical pathways. Acetaminophen, while effective for pain relief and fever reduction, does not have the anti-inflammatory properties of NSAIDs and does not work through the opioid receptors, distinguishing it further from opioids like oxycodone.