Which of the following medications is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)?

Ibuprofen is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) because it is specifically designed to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and lower fever through the inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2). This mechanism of action leads to decreased production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for promoting inflammation, pain, and fever.

NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, are commonly used for conditions such as arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, and other inflammatory disorders because they provide both analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects, making them versatile in treating various acute and chronic pain conditions.

The other medications mentioned do not fall under the NSAID classification. Acetaminophen, although used for pain relief and fever reduction, is not considered an NSAID because it does not possess significant anti-inflammatory properties. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that has anti-inflammatory effects but works through different pathways. Codeine is an opioid analgesic that primarily provides pain relief but does not have anti-inflammatory effects typical of NSAIDs.