Pattern of self-administered paracetamol and codeine analgesic consumption after mandibular third-molar surgery

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Pharmacology
• Pain Management

Background:

• Unilateral mandibular third-molar surgery is a common procedure often associated with postoperative pain.
• Effective pain management is crucial for patient recovery and satisfaction following third-molar extraction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the pattern of analgesic consumption after unilateral mandibular third-molar surgery.
• To assess the efficacy of a prescribed analgesic regimen (paracetamol and codeine).
• To identify predictors of analgesic use in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• An open study involving 201 patients undergoing unilateral mandibular third-molar surgery.
• Patients received six tablets of paracetamol (500 mg) and codeine (30 mg).
• Data on tablet consumption, pain control, and adherence to medication instructions were collected.

Main Results:

• A mean consumption of 4.9 tablets was observed in the first week, with 3.6 tablets used on the day of operation.
• Four percent of patients reported inadequate pain relief; the rest achieved adequate pain control.
• Preoperative third molar depth and moderate to heavy smoking were identified as significant predictors of analgesic consumption.

Conclusions:

• The combination of paracetamol and codeine provided effective pain management for most patients after mandibular third-molar surgery.
• Patient adherence to medication timing did not significantly impact overall consumption.
• Third molar depth and smoking status are important factors to consider in postoperative pain management strategies.