Opioids are classified as which type of drugs?

Opioids are classified as analgesics, which are medications used specifically to relieve pain. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, effectively blocking the perception of pain and producing a feeling of euphoria. This pain-relieving property is what distinguishes them from other types of drugs. In contrast, antidepressants are primarily used to treat mood disorders, stimulants increase activity and alertness, and hallucinogens alter perception and cognitive processes. Therefore, the classification of opioids as analgesics reflects their primary therapeutic use in pain management.