The term "painkillers" refers to medications that are designed to reduce or eliminate pain. These drugs work by blocking the transmission of pain signals in the body, either by acting on the nervous system or by interfering with the production of prostaglandins - hormone-like substances that play a role in causing inflammation and pain. Painkillers can be prescribed by doctors for short-term use following an injury or surgery, or they may be taken on a regular basis to manage chronic pain conditions such as arthritis or migraines. Over-the-counter pain relievers are also available, but these should only be used for minor aches and pains and not as a long-term solution for chronic pain.