Which class of drugs is commonly used for pain management during surgical procedures?

• A. Sedatives
• B. Local anesthetics
• C. NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
• D. Opioids

Answer: (C)

The correct choice for managing pain during surgical procedures is NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs). NSAIDs are effective in alleviating pain and reducing inflammation, making them a popular choice for pre-operative and post-operative pain management. They work by inhibiting the production of certain chemicals in the body that contribute to pain and inflammation, providing relief without the need for stronger narcotics.

In a surgical context, pain management is crucial for improving patient comfort and outcomes. The use of NSAIDs helps in managing mild to moderate pain and can be combined with other analgesics to provide comprehensive pain control.

While sedatives are important for calming an animal during procedures, they do not directly address pain management. Local anesthetics are effective for pain relief at the site of a procedure but may not provide adequate relief for more invasive surgeries. Opioids are indeed potent analgesics and also serve as a common choice for pain management; however, NSAIDs are particularly noted for their utility in broader pain management and inflammation control during surgical procedures.