Paracetamol, non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and glucocorticoids for postoperative pain: A protocol for a systematic review with meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis

Abstract

Multimodal analgesia is the leading principle for managing postoperative pain. Recent guidelines recommend combinations of paracetamol and a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) for most surgeries. Glucocorticoids have been used for decades due to their potent anti‐inflammatory and antipyretic properties. Subsequently, glucocorticoids may improve postoperative analgesia. We will perform a systematic review to assess benefits and harms of adding glucocorticoids to paracetamol and NSAIDs. We expect to uncover pros and cons of the addition of glucocorticoid to the basic standard regimen of paracetamol and NSAIDs for postoperative analgesia.