This high-yield revision note on NSAIDs & Steroids in Dentistry: Mechanism & Clinical Use covers everything examiners typically test under Pharmacology — structured as quick-reference tables, clinical correlations, mnemonics and previous-year-style high-yield points. It's built for last-mile revision before NEET MDS, INI-CET MDS and INBDE, so you can scan it in minutes instead of re-reading a whole textbook chapter.
| Drug Class | Mechanism | Clinical Use in Dentistry | Caution |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac) | Inhibit COX-1/COX-2 → ↓ prostaglandin synthesis | Post-extraction pain, pulpitis pain (very effective - inflammatory pain) | GI ulceration, avoid in renal impairment, asthma (aspirin-sensitive), pregnancy 3rd trimester |
| Aspirin | Irreversible COX inhibition | Rarely used now for dental pain | Irreversibly inhibits platelet COX → bleeding risk, avoid pre-extraction; Reye's syndrome in children |
| Paracetamol | Central COX inhibition (weak peripheral anti-inflammatory) | Safe alternative when NSAID contraindicated, combined with NSAID for synergy | Hepatotoxic in overdose/liver disease |
| Corticosteroids (Dexamethasone, Prednisolone) | Inhibit phospholipase A2 → block whole arachidonic acid cascade (both COX & LOX pathways) | 3rd molar surgery edema/trismus control, oral lichen planus, aphthous ulcers, TMJ inflammation | Avoid long-term use (adrenal suppression); short courses generally safe; caution in diabetics, infection |
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