What is the primary function of an analgesic substance?

The primary function of an analgesic substance is to decrease pain. Analgesics are specifically designed to alleviate discomfort by acting on the body's pain pathways. This action can vary depending on the type of analgesic; for instance, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce inflammation and mild pain, while opioids target specific receptors in the brain to provide relief from more severe pain. The effectiveness of these substances in managing pain highlights their critical role in both medical and therapeutic settings, where pain management is essential for improving quality of life. Other options like increasing energy, enhancing cognitive function, or improving mood pertain to different categories of substances and do not accurately describe the primary mechanism of analgesics.