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Non-opioid Analgesics Vs. Opioid-based for Effective and Safe Pain Management in Post-surgical Patients

Capstone
2025

Repository

Description

Background: Postoperative pain remains a clinical challenge that is traditionally managed with opioids. Opioids carry the risk of adverse events and dependence. Thus, a demand for safer and effective alternatives has prompted the development and evaluation of novel analgesics postoperatively. Purpose: This research aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of emerging analgesic options of acute postoperative pain. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and South College Library for high-quality studies published within the past 10 years. Inclusion criteria focused on randomized control trials and systematic reviews involving postoperative surgical candidates with emphasis on novel analgesics and unconventional treatment algorithms. Methodological quality was assessed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Quality Assessment Tool.14 Three studies meeting “good” quality standards were included for data extraction to aid in the final synthesis. Results: VX-548 significantly reduced postoperative pain compared to placebo (SPID48 difference: 37.8; 95% CI: 9.2–66.4) with a lower risk of opioid-related adverse effects. The network meta-analysis found NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors, and alpha-2 agonists to be the most effective at reducing pain and opioid use, with the combination of acetaminophen and NSAIDs providing the greatest morphine-sparing effect (−22.8 mg; 95% CI: −31.5 to −14). Oliceridine showed greater pain control than placebo (p < 0.0001), similar efficacy to morphine, and fewer respiratory and GI side effects at certain doses (p = 0.015–0.044). Conclusion: The findings support newer pain management strategies that minimize opioid exposure. VX-548 and oliceridine offer alternatives to traditional opioids, while evidence iv continues to support NSAID-based regimens. These options may help improve pain control while reducing opioid-related harm.
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Record Data:

Program :
  • Physician Assistant Studies
Location :
  • Knoxville
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