Abstract
Aim: To describe the role of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the management of pain after oral surgery. Materials and methods: A review of the literature describing the pharmacokinetics, benefits and harms of NSAIDs in terms of systematic review evidence, interactions, use in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Results: Twelve Cochrane reviews were identified describing the efficacy of NSAIDs for pain after oral surgery. Ibuprofen 400mg is an effective analgesic [number needed to treat (NNT)=2.3 in tablet form and 1.8 in soluble form]. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)-selective NSAIDs also demonstrate low NNTs, based on smaller studies of post-operative pain. There is association with gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and renal adverse effects. Conclusions: NSAIDs are effective analgesics for moderate pain after oral surgery. The routine use of COX-2-selective NSAIDs is not recommended. Careful patient selection is important. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 152-161 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Oral Surgery |
Volume | 7 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2014 |
Keywords
- Oral
- Pain
- Surgery