Which medication is classified as an antipyretic?

Ibuprofen is classified as an antipyretic, which means it is a medication used to reduce fever. It works by inhibiting the production of certain chemicals in the body called prostaglandins, which play a role in the inflammatory response and in raising the body's temperature during illness. By lowering these levels, ibuprofen effectively brings down a fever, making it useful for treating various conditions that cause elevated body temperatures, such as infections.

In contrast, Tamiflu is an antiviral medication specifically used to treat influenza, while acyclovir is an antiviral drug used for treating infections caused by certain viruses, like herpes. A laxative is a type of medication used to relieve constipation by facilitating bowel movements and does not have any antipyretic effects. Therefore, ibuprofen is distinctively categorized among these options for its ability to reduce fever, highlighting its role in managing symptoms associated with various illnesses.