In continuing coverage, The New York Times (4/25, Bakalar, Subscription Publication) reports that a review of studies of medication and medication combinations for pain relief shows “over-the-counter pain pills are safer and more effective than prescription opioids for controlling the pain following dental procedures.” Study co-author Dr. Anita Aminoshariae, an associate professor at Case Western University, said, “You have to start with an NSAID,” adding, “If that doesn’t work, add Tylenol. No one should go home in pain, but opioids should not be the first choice.” The study was published in The Journal of the American Dental Association.

HealthDay (4/25, Preidt) reports the study also found that “opioids or drug combinations that included opioids caused the greatest number of side effects – including drowsiness, respiratory problems, nausea/vomiting and constipation – in both children and adults.”

The study referenced above is one of four cover articles in the April issue of The Journal of the American Dental Association focusing on the subject of opioids and dentistry.