What is one effect of NSAIDs on inflammation?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of medications that are widely used for their ability to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. They achieve this effect primarily by inhibiting certain enzymes in the body, specifically cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2). These enzymes are crucial in the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are compounds that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever.

By blocking the production of prostaglandins, NSAIDs effectively reduce the inflammatory response, leading to decreased redness, swelling, and pain in affected tissues. This mechanism makes NSAIDs a popular choice in both acute and chronic conditions associated with inflammation, such as arthritis, musculoskeletal injuries, and post-surgical pain management.

The other options do not accurately reflect the pharmacological effects of NSAIDs. They do not increase inflammation or have no effect on it; rather, their primary role is to counteract inflammation through their biochemical action. Additionally, they do not cause inflammation but serve to alleviate it, making the reduction of inflammation a key characteristic of NSAIDs.