Pathology · single question
DAY 2 — CASE 3 (TMJ): A patient's jaw deviates to the left at 32mm opening with no pain. What is the best medication to manage the TMD?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Cyclobenzaprine
- A. Voltaren (diclofenac gel) is a topical NSAID — useful for localized joint pain but not the first-line systemic medication for masticatory muscle spasm in TMD.
- B. Gabapentin is for neuropathic pain and is not first-line for acute masticatory muscle spasm.
- C. CYCLOBENZAPRINE (Flexeril) is the drug of choice for acute masticatory muscle spasm associated with TMD. It is a centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant that reduces muscle hyperactivity. Short-term use (up to 2–3 weeks) is recommended.
- D. Ibuprofen (NSAID) is appropriate for anti-inflammatory/analgesic management of TMJ pain but does not specifically address muscle spasm.