Combining acetaminophen with NSAID in acute postoperative pain

Q: Combine administration of acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is harmful during perioperative pain and should be avoided?

A) True

B) False

Answer: B

There is a high realization among clinicians for the use of a multi-model approach for pain relief particularly postoperatively instead of solely relying on opioids. Studies have shown that the combined use of acetaminophen and NSAIDs is more effective than either drug alone unless there is a contraindication. The chance of harmful effects is unlikely as both have different mechanisms of action.

This combined approach is highly recommended to be used in multimodal pain control and Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) protocols.

#surgical-critical-care

Reference:

Ong CK, Seymour RA, Lirk P, Merry AF. Combining paracetamol (acetaminophen) with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs: a qualitative systematic review of analgesic efficacy for acute postoperative pain. Anesth Analg 2010; 110:1170.