Cervical Spine Acute Bony Injuries in Sports Medicine Medication

Updated: Mar 19, 2022
  • Author: George L Hertner, MD; Chief Editor: Sherwin SW Ho, MD  more...
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Medication

Medication Summary

As with all fractures, pain management should be a primary concern. Often acetaminophen or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is prescribed for the acute pain of a fracture. However, additional pain relief may be indicated if the patient does not have relief with acetaminophen or NSAIDs alone. In this case, an opiate may be required, particularly for breakthrough pain. Adjustment of pain medications may be necessary, especially in the acute phase.

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Analgesics

Class Summary

Pain control is essential to quality patient care. Analgesics ensure patient comfort, promote pulmonary toilet, and have sedating properties, which are beneficial for patients who have sustained injuries.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Feverall, Tempera, Aspirin Free Anacin, Tylenol-3)

Indicated for mild to moderate pain. DOC for pain in patients with documented hypersensitivity to aspirin or NSAIDs, with upper GI disease, or who are taking PO anticoagulants.

Ibuprofen (Motrin, Ibuprin)

DOC for patients with mild to moderate pain. Inhibits inflammatory reactions and pain by decreasing prostaglandin synthesis.

Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet, Roxicet, Roxilox, OxyIR, Tylox, Roxiprin)

Indicated for moderate to severe pain.

Hydrocodone and acetaminophen (Vicodin, Margesic, Lortab, Norcet, Lorcet-HD)

Indicated for moderate to severe pain.

Codeine

Indicated for moderate to severe pain. Binds to opiate receptors in the CNS, causing inhibition of ascending pain pathways, altering perception and response to pain.

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Corticosteroids

Class Summary

Corticosteroid agents have anti-inflammatory properties that may be protective in acute spinal cord injuries with neurologic deficits.

Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol, Depo-Medrol)

Decrease inflammation by suppressing the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reversing increased capillary permeability. Indicated for known or suspected spinal cord injury. To be administered within 8 h of injury.

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