Gabapentin and Diclofenac Sodium Comparison for Post-Operative Pain Relief

Comparative Efficacy of Gabapentin and Diclofenac Sodium for Post-Operative Pain Relief in Patients Undergoing Major Abdominal Surgeries

Little is known about comparative efficacy of gabapentin and diclofenac sodium in managing post-operative pain. Therefore, this study was planned to compare the efficacy of gabapentin, and diclofenac sodium for post-operative pain relief in patients undergoing major abdominal surgeries.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioid analgesics, and local and regional anesthesia have been used as preventive interventions, but their role in postoperative pain management remains inconclusive. Gabapentin is a relatively new drug for postoperative pain management whose side effects are well tolerated. If the findings of this study produce similar observations, it would add to the already scarce data and help patients undergoing major abdominal surgeries in the local settings in relieving postoperative pain effectively.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Any gender
• Aged 18-60 years
• Undergoing elective major abdominal surgery under general anesthesia
• With physical status I or II
• Who were able to comprehend and use the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain assessment

Exclusion Criteria:

• With a known allergy or contraindication to gabapentin, or diclofenac sodium
• A history of peptic ulcer disease
• A history of gastrointestinal bleeding
• Hepatic or renal dysfunction
• Pregnancy or lactation
• With neurological or psychiatric disorders affecting pain perception
• Received opioids, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) within 24 hours before surgery
• With uncontrolled hypertension, ischemic heart disease, or diabetes mellitus
• Those who experienced intraoperative complications necessitating a change in anesthetic plan or postoperative mechanical ventilation