A clinical investigation of piritramide in the treatment of postoperative pain.

In a double-blind trial three dosage strengths of piritramide, 5, 10 and 20 mg, were compared with morphine 15 mg in the treatment of postoperative pain. Pain intensity was assessed by the patient, and pain relief and side effects by a nurse-assessor. A iog-dose response relationship was established for piritramide. Piritramide 20 mg was shown to be equivalent to morphine 15 mg in analgesic effect. From this and previous studies of piritramide, it appears that piritramide has a greater hypnotic effect than an equi-analgesic dose of morphine, but that it has a lesser incidence of other side effects, particularly nausea and vomiting, and hypotensive effects. Piritramide is indicated as a suitable analgesic for postoperative pain relief.