Pharmacology · single question
What is the recommended drug regimen for MODERATE TO SEVERE dental pain per ADA guidelines?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Ibuprofen 400–600mg + Acetaminophen 500mg every 6 hours
✓ B) Ibuprofen + Acetaminophen combination is the ADA recommendation for moderate-severe pain.
ADA Analgesic Guidelines: MILD pain = Ibuprofen 400mg PRN or q6h. MODERATE pain = Ibuprofen 400–600mg + Acetaminophen 500mg q6h (combination is synergistic — different mechanisms). SEVERE pain = Ibuprofen 400–600mg + Acetaminophen 650mg + Hydrocodone 10mg q6h for 24–48 hours, then taper to ibuprofen + acetaminophen. The ibuprofen-acetaminophen combination is equivalent to opioids for most dental pain with fewer side effects. AVOID opioids as first-line for acute dental pain per current guidelines.
ADA Analgesic Guidelines: MILD pain = Ibuprofen 400mg PRN or q6h. MODERATE pain = Ibuprofen 400–600mg + Acetaminophen 500mg q6h (combination is synergistic — different mechanisms). SEVERE pain = Ibuprofen 400–600mg + Acetaminophen 650mg + Hydrocodone 10mg q6h for 24–48 hours, then taper to ibuprofen + acetaminophen. The ibuprofen-acetaminophen combination is equivalent to opioids for most dental pain with fewer side effects. AVOID opioids as first-line for acute dental pain per current guidelines.