Gabapentinoids are a common adjunct to traditional pain management strategies after total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The present study investigated the efficacy and safety of gabapentinoids in primary TJA to support various institutions combined clinical practice guidelines.

It searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for relevant studies; and found-

• Thirteen high-quality studies as the best available evidence for analysis.
• Before discharge, pregabalin reduces postoperative opioid consumption in the perioperative period, but gabapentinoids do not reduce postoperative pain. 
• After discharge, gabapentin does not reduce postoperative pain or opioid consumption, but pregabalin reduces both postoperative pain and opioid consumption.

This study provides evidence that supports the use of pregabalin in TJA to reduce postoperative pain and opioid consumption. 

The Journal of Arthroplasty. 2020;35(10):2730-2738. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arth.2020.05.033.