Effect of Gabapentin on Postoperative Opioid Analgesic Use and Pain in Adolescents Undergoing Tonsillectomy

Effect of Gabapentin on Postoperative Opioid Analgesic Use and Pain in Adolescents Undergoing Tonsillectomy

This study aims to determine if administration of gabapentin preoperatively followed by a standing postoperative course is effective in reducing and possibly eliminating the use of opioid analgesics following this procedure. As a secondary outcome, it will evaluate the possible improvement in post tonsillectomy pain control with the use of a standing dose of gabapentin.

This is a prospective, randomized, non-blinded control trial designed to determine if administration of gabapentin postoperatively is effective in reducing and possibly eliminating the use of opioid analgesics following tonsillectomies in the adolescent population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged 12-18.
• Patient scheduled for elective tonsillectomy +/- adenoidec-tomy, +/- BMTs.
• ASA physical status I and II.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe upper respiratory tract infections.
• Patients who are actively on gabapentin or pregabalin, pre-existing with pain syndromes, chronic use of opioids, allergy to gabapentin, acetaminophen, and or NSAIDs
• Patient who lacks of fluency in English or inability to communicate pain.
• Patient who has severe asthma, bleeding disorders, and history of gastrointestinal bleeding, epilepsy, renal impairment or any other medical problem that in the opinion of the investigator would interfere with study population.