Prostaglandins and related compounds called eicosanoids are locally-acting hormones produced from arachidonic acid. They have various roles including in inflammation, fever, blood pressure regulation, and reproduction. Prostaglandins are synthesized through a cyclic pathway involving the enzyme prostaglandin H2 synthase and a linear pathway using lipoxygenases. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs inhibit prostaglandin synthesis to reduce inflammation, pain, and fever.