Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 20, 2026
09:38
Determining Pain Detection and Tolerance Thresholds Using an Integrated, Multi-Modal Pain Task Battery
Published on: April 14, 2016
13.4K
Does acetaminophen/hydrocodone affect cold pulpal testing in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis? A
Sara Fowler1, Spencer Fullmer2, Melissa Drum1
1Division of Endodontics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
Journal of Endodontics
|December 3, 2014
Summary
A combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone did not significantly reduce pain during cold pulpal testing for irreversible pulpitis. Patients in both treatment and placebo groups experienced moderate to severe pain responses.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Pharmacology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Symptomatic irreversible pulpitis often causes severe dental pain.
- Effective pain management is crucial for patients undergoing endodontic treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a 1000 mg acetaminophen/10 mg hydrocodone combination in managing pain during cold pulpal testing.
- To assess the drug's effect on patient responses to cold stimuli in irreversible pulpitis.
Main Methods:
- Prospective randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
- 100 patients with irreversible pulpitis received either acetaminophen/hydrocodone or placebo.
- Cold testing performed at intervals, with pain assessed using a visual analog scale.
Main Results:
- Both groups reported severe pain at baseline and 10 minutes.
- Pain decreased to moderate levels from 20-60 minutes in both groups.
- No statistically significant difference in pain or reaction severity between the acetaminophen/hydrocodone and placebo groups.
Conclusions:
- The combination of 1000 mg acetaminophen/10 mg hydrocodone showed no significant effect on cold pulpal testing outcomes.
- Patients with irreversible pulpitis experienced persistent moderate to severe pain and reactions to cold stimuli, irrespective of treatment.
