Which medications are frequently used for managing postoperative pain?

The use of opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for managing postoperative pain is well-supported by clinical practice and research. Opioids are effective in alleviating moderate to severe pain due to their ability to bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, effectively blocking pain signals. They are commonly prescribed for short-term pain relief after surgery.

NSAIDs, on the other hand, work by inhibiting enzymes involved in the inflammatory process, providing pain relief as well as reducing inflammation at the surgical site. This dual mechanism of action makes them particularly valuable in managing mild to moderate pain and is often used in conjunction with opioids.

Combining these two classes of medications can be particularly effective; when used together, they can improve pain control while potentially allowing for lower doses of opioids, thus minimizing the risk of side effects associated with opioid use, such as dependence and respiratory depression. This approach aligns with current pain management guidelines, which emphasize multimodal analgesia as a best practice in postoperative care.