Nicotine as an Adjuvant Analgesic for Third Molar Surgery

Effect of Nicotine on Pain After Third Molar Extraction.

Third molar surgery is complicated by pain and swelling for several days after surgery. Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs have been useful in combination with opioids for treatment. Nicotine has antiinflammatory and pain relieving properties. We will use nicotine or placebo as a nasal spray before surgery to determine whether nicotine affects pain or inflammation.

This is a randomized double blind cross-over study. In each of two sittings, the third molars on one side of the mouth are removed. In one sitting the subject will receive a nicotine nasal spray (3mg) and in the other placebo. VAS and narcotic utilization will be compared within patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• over 18
• 4 molars to be removed

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnant
• lactating
• chronic pain
• narcotic use
• asthma
• ex-smokers