Which drug is a narcotic pain reliever?

Hydromorphone is classified as a narcotic pain reliever, also known as an opioid analgesic. Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which helps to reduce the perception of pain and can also produce feelings of euphoria. Hydromorphone is often prescribed for severe pain management due to its potency and the mechanism by which it alleviates discomfort.

In contrast, the other medications listed—naproxen, ibuprofen, and piroxicam—are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While NSAIDs can be effective in treating pain and inflammation, they do not have the same narcotic effect and do not interact with opioid receptors in the body. Their main action is to reduce inflammation, swelling, and fever, but they do not carry the same risk of dependence or misuse associated with narcotics.