Anti-inflammatory is the property of a substance or treatment that reduces inflammation or swelling. Anti-inflammatory drugs, also called anti-inflammatories, make up about half of analgesics. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medicines you can take for pain relief. They are often sold over-the-counter (OTC). This means you can buy them without a prescription from your doctor. Some common brand names are Advil, Motrin, or Aleve.