Comparison of the effect of use of preoperative mexiletine tablets and control on reducing postoperative pain in patients undergoing abdominal surgery.

OBJECTIVE

Postoperative pain is a major concern for patients and healthcare providers following abdominal surgery. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of mexiletine in reducing postoperative pain in patients undergoing abdominal surgery.

METHODS

In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, 34 patients were divided into two groups. One group received 600 mg of mexiletine tablets, while the other group received vitamin C tablets (control) two hours before surgery. Postoperative pain levels were assessed at 6, 12, and 24 h by using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Additionally, the amount of narcotics received within the first 24 h after surgery was recorded.

RESULTS

The results showed that the average postoperative pain score in patients who received mexiletine was significantly lower than in those who received vitamin C tablets (<0.001). Furthermore, the average amount of narcotics received after surgery was significantly lower in the mexiletine group compared to the control group (=0.03). Pain scores at 6, 12, and 24 h after surgery were also significantly lower in the mexiletine group (<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Mexiletine was effective in reducing postoperative pain and the need for narcotics in patients undergoing abdominal surgery. This study highlights the potential of mexiletine as a valuable preoperative intervention for postoperative pain management.