Post-surgical Instructions-Pain Medications

Pain is usually well controlled with either prescription or over the counter pain medications. Dr. Maranon may prescribe pain medication. Patients may be instructed to take pain medications on a schedule (every four or every six hours). It is important for patients not to miss a dose unless they have a reaction to the medication. Patients may also be instructed to transition to Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, or Nuprin) the day after surgery. If Ibuprofen does not provide adequate relief, patients can take their prescription pain medications as prescribed and only as needed. The ibuprofens have excellent pain killing properties and can help with jaw stiffness and swelling. Unless instructed otherwise, it is important to eat something prior to taking pain medication. If patients are unable to achieve adequate pain control with their medications they should contact Dr. Maranon immediately: Encino Oral Surgery Office Phone Number 818-990-5500. 

Patients taking prescription pain medication must be careful if they suddenly sit up or stand from a lying position. This may cause patients to feel dizzy or faint, which can result in loss of consciousness or injury. If patients have been lying down following surgery, they must sit up for one or two minutes before standing and they may require assistance.

It is important to remember that the prescription pain medications may make patients drowsy and slow reflexes. Patients must not drive automobiles, work around machinery or participate in activities that have the potential to cause injury while taking these medications or sooner than 24 hours after receiving general anesthetic or sedative medications. Alcoholic beverages must be avoided while taking prescription pain medications.

Patients should not increase the amount of prescription medication dosage without consulting with Dr. Maranon. Prescription medications should not be given to others and patients must not accept medications from sources other than their pharmacy. Patients must inform Dr. Maranon if they use other medications, including over-the-counter medications (aspirin, cold or sinus medications), supplements and street drugs. These medications can have potential interactions with other substances, such as alcohol, antihistamines, anti-anxiety drugs such as benzodiazepines, and sleep aids.

It is important not to take Tylenol or acetaminophen with some prescription pain medications. Any patients with a history of substance abuse or who are experiencing any of the warning signs of addiction should discuss this with Dr. Maranon. Patients must also discuss with Dr. Maranon any medical conditions they may have as pain medications may affect some of those conditions.