Comparison of Analgesic Efficacy of Tramadol Hydrochloride with Diclofenac Sodium in Dento-alveolar Surgery

The purpose of this study was to find a safe and effective analgesic alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for patients undergoing dento-alveolar surgery who could not tolerate NSAIDs. We have compared on a double blind, randomized basis the efficacy of Tramadol hydrochloride with Diclofenac Sodium. Sixty patients undergoing third molar surgery were divided into two groups. One group was given tramadol hydrochloride 50 mg three times daily and the second group diclofenac sodium 50 mg three times daily for three days. Pain control was measured using a 0 to 10 numerical scale. The analgesic efficacy of the two drugs was equal except on day one when tramadol did better than diclofenac. Tramadol can be used safely for post operative analgesia after dento-alveolar surgery especially in situations where NSAIDs are contraindicated.