Which of the following is NOT an effect of acetaminophen?

Acetaminophen is primarily recognized for its antipyretic and analgesic properties. As an antipyretic, it effectively reduces fever by acting on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center, leading to vasodilation and increased peripheral blood flow. Its analgesic capacity allows it to alleviate mild to moderate pain by inhibiting a specific form of cyclooxygenase, particularly in the central nervous system.

However, acetaminophen is not classified as an anti-inflammatory medication. Unlike nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), it does not produce significant anti-inflammatory effects, primarily because it has a minimal impact on the peripheral cyclooxygenase enzymes involved in the inflammatory response. This characteristic makes it different from drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin, which are recognized for their ability to reduce inflammation in addition to providing analgesic and antipyretic effects.

Thus, acetaminophen's lack of anti-inflammatory action solidifies its distinction from other medications that serve that purpose, making it clear why the statement regarding acetaminophen's anti-inflammatory effects is the correct choice.