If a patient with arthritis is already taking naproxen, what pain medication is typically prescribed for dental pain?

• A. Ibuprofen
• B. Acetaminophen
• C. Aspirin
• D. Naproxen

Answer: (B)

In the context of managing dental pain for a patient with arthritis who is already taking naproxen, acetaminophen is typically chosen as it offers effective pain relief without the risks associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen, which the patient is already using. While naproxen serves as an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving agent, taking additional NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, cardiovascular issues, or other complications that may arise from prolonged NSAID exposure, especially in a patient with a pre-existing condition like arthritis.

Acetaminophen, on the other hand, functions primarily as an analgesic and antipyretic. It is generally well-tolerated, does not have anti-inflammatory properties like NSAIDs, and is not associated with the same risks. Therefore, it can be safely utilized in this scenario to manage dental pain effectively while minimizing potential interactions and side effects that could occur with additional NSAID use.