Comparative Analgesic Efficacy of Varying Concentrations of Oxybuprocaine Hydrochloride Gargle Following Adult Tonsillectomy: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Study

Objectives

Adult tonsillectomy is associated with severe postoperative pain, often leading to readmission. This pilot study evaluates the feasibility, safety, and dose-response relationship of three concentrations of Oxybuprocaine hydrochloride gargle as an analgesic adjunct.

Materials and Methods

Sixty healthy adults (18-60 years) were randomized into four groups (n=15 per group): Control (saline), Group A (0.3% Oxybuprocaine), Group B (0.15%), and Group C (0.06%). Patients gargled 10-15 mL for 30 sec thrice daily for three postoperative days. Pain was measured using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) before and 10 min after administration.

Results

Groups A and B showed significantly higher VAS reduction compared to control (p<0.001). Group A provided the strongest relief (2.71±1.17 reduction) but had a 53.3% adverse reaction rate. Group B (1.08±0.71 reduction) provided the optimal therapeutic window with a 33.3% reaction rate.

Conclusion

0.15% oxybuprocaine gargle is a safe and effective adjunct for managing adult post-tonsillectomy pain.