Which of these following is not a non-narcotic analgesic?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Codeine
A drug that is not a non-narcotic analgesic is a narcotic analgesic. Non-narcotic analgesics (aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac sodium) relieve pain and also reduce fever. Narcotic analgesics are morphine and its homologues, such as codeine and heroin, obtained from the opium poppy.
Option (1) Aspirin — A non-narcotic analgesic. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins.
Option (2) Ibuprofen — A non-narcotic analgesic. It is also an anti-inflammatory drug.
Option (3) Codeine — Not a non-narcotic analgesic (a narcotic analgesic). It is a homologue of morphine; in medicinal doses it relieves pain and produces sleep.
Option (4) Diclofenac sodium — A non-narcotic analgesic. It is used for pain and inflammation.
Note: This question is from the pre-rationalised NCERT book (2022-23). The topic is not there in the latest NCERT book (2026-27), and it is also out of the CUET 2026 syllabus.
NCERT (Pre-rationalised edition, 2022-23):
Analgesics
