What is an example of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)?

Aspirin is a classic example of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) because it works by inhibiting specific enzymes in the body called cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2). This inhibition reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are substances that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. As a result, aspirin is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever.

When considering the other options, acetaminophen, while a popular pain reliever, does not have significant anti-inflammatory properties and is classified as an analgesic and antipyretic rather than an NSAID. Hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic that is used to treat moderate to severe pain but does not have anti-inflammatory properties. Metformin is an oral medication used primarily for managing type 2 diabetes and has no relation to inflammation or pain relief. Thus, aspirin is clearly the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug among the choices given.