Name an alternative to opioid analgesics that are not controlled substances and do not cause depression of the central nervous system.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a valuable alternative to opioid analgesics because they effectively provide pain relief without the risk of addiction or central nervous system depression. NSAIDs work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are compounds that mediate inflammation and pain. By reducing inflammation, they can help alleviate pain in various conditions without the sedative effects typically associated with opioids.

The other options are not suitable for pain management in the same way. Corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and provide some pain relief but are generally not used as first-line analgesics due to their potential side effects and long-term implications. Antibiotics are used to treat infections and do not address pain management. Beta-blockers, primarily used for cardiovascular issues, do not have analgesic properties and are not employed in the management of pain. Thus, NSAIDs stand out as the appropriate choice for non-controlled substances that effectively manage pain without CNS depression.