How do antipyretics work?
Answer:
Wikipedia gives a general description:
"Antipyretics cause the hypothalamus to override an interleukin-induced increase in temperature. The body will then work to lower the temperature and the result is a reduction in fever." [1]
This other page gives some more details, talking about how different antipyretics inhibit the production of different chemicals that cause the hypothalamus to raise the body temperature setpoint:
"Aspirin and the non-steroidal antiphlogistics display antipyretic activity by inhibiting the cyclo-oxygenase, an enzyme responsible for the synthesis of PGE (these antipyretics don't inhibit the production of TNF- or IL-1). Glucocorticoids work antipyretically by inhibiting the production of IL-1 and TNF- , and by inhibiting the metabolic processes of arachidonic acid." [2]
Does that help?
Antipyretics work by getting the "thermostat" in the hypothalamus to override the interleukin-induced increase in temperature. The body will then work to lower the temperature to the new, lower temperature and the result is a reduction in the fever. Antipyretics will also reduce prostaglandin synthesis in the hypothalamus by inhibiting the effect of endogenous or microbial pyrogens on the heat regulating sensors of the hypothalamus. By blocking prostaglandin synthetase, antipyretics prevent a rise in prostaglandin levels in the brain.
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