Post Operative Pain Control Instructions
1) If you had extremity surgery, keep the affected limb elevated above the level of your heart. This reduces swelling and throbbing pain. When you sleep be sure to keep your extremity elevated on pillows for the first 72 hours after surgery.
2) Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) work well to control your pain. They can be taken at the same time as they work together. You do not need a prescription.
Recommended dosing for a healthy adult:
- Acetaminophen 500–650mg by mouth, every 4-6 hours as needed and
- Ibuprofen 400mg by mouth, every 6 hours as needed
**Do not take more than 4 grams of acetaminophen daily.
**If you have liver or kidney problems, please ask Dr. Beveridge before taking these medications.
3) Depending on the type of surgery you had, you may need an additional opioid pain medication to control your pain.Dr. Beveridge will prescribe these if needed. Take them as directed by the pharmacist.
Do not drive or drink alcohol while taking pain medication as it can make you drowsy and impair your judgment.
Opioid pain medications can be addictive, so you should stop taking them as soon as possible.
4) Your pain medication is intended for use by you only. Do not share with family or friends and do not keep your extra pain medication for future use.
Leftover pain medication can be disposed by one of the following means:
- Return to your pharmacy
- Return to your local police or firestation
Do not flush leftover medications down the toilet.
Opioid pain medications cause constipation, drink plenty of water and eat lots of fibre while taking these medications. You may take an over-the-counter laxative if needed.