A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Perioperative Dextromethorphan Compared to Placebo for the Treatment of Postoperative Pain

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of perioperative dextromethorphan compared to a placebo in managing postoperative pain for patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This randomized, placebo-controlled trial aims to study the analgesic effects of dextromethorphan based on preclinical evidence suggesting its benefit for pain of traumatic origin. The study randomly assigns male and female patients to two groups: one receiving dextromethorphan and the other receiving a placebo. Participants in the dextromethorphan group will take 60 mg orally before surgery and 30 mg at 8 and 16 hours after surgery. The trial is conducted at a single institution and involves multiple doses to assess pain relief after TKA. During the study, participants will be monitored for opioid use within 24 hours after surgery, as well as their subjective pain levels before surgery and at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours afterward. Researchers will also track opioid consumption up to 48 hours postoperatively. The study includes a triple-blind design to ensure unbiased results and continues until the end of 2026.

Dextromethorphan for Treatment of Postoperative Pain