A cost analysis of nalbuphine versus meperidine used in oral surgery procedures

Abstract

Cost control is of primary importance to the oral surgeon in private practice. Fifty-six patients, 26 receiving nalbuphine (10 mg IV) and 30 receiving meperidine (50 mg IV), were included in a comparative evaluation of recovery-room costs. The two treatment groups were comparable with respect to the surgical procedures performed, the quantity of ancillary sedation used, and the analgesic effectiveness of the two study medications. However, there were marked differences between treatment groups for two characteristics: length of time in the recovery room was more than 50% greater and the nursing time required per patient was 35.3% greater in the meperidine group than in the nalbuphine group. Cost analysis indicated that nalbuphine is more cost-effective than meperidine if recovery-room nursing staff salaries exceed $16,000 per year.