Analgesic efficacy of valdecoxib for acute postoperative pain after bunionectomy

Two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies assessed the analgesic efficacy of valdecoxib in patients with moderate-to-severe pain after bunionectomy. Study 1 (N = 374) assessed the efficacy of two regimens of valdecoxib on the day after surgery (valdecoxib, 40 mg, with a 20-mg redose [n = 127]; valdecoxib, 40 mg, with a placebo redose [n = 122]; and placebo/placebo [n = 125]), and study 2 (N = 478) examined the efficacy of two different multiple-dose regimens on postoperative days 2 through 5 (valdecoxib, 20 mg, twice daily [n = 160]; valdecoxib, 20 mg, once daily [n = 159]; and placebo [n = 159]). Valdecoxib provided significant pain relief and reduced the use of opioid rescue medication. This efficacy was accompanied by improved global scores, decreased pain interference with function, and increased patient satisfaction.