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Nayyar MS, Yates C. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2006; 44: 501–503

Studies report conflicting results on the ability of bupivacaine to reduce postoperative pain. In this study, 45 patients had bilaterally symmetrical impacted 3rd molars removed under GA. After induction and before surgery, bupivacaine 0.5% with epinephrine 1:200,000 was administered on one side chosen randomly. Patients recorded subsequent pain experience. There were no anaesthetic or surgical complications.

At 6, 12, and 72 hrs, there was significantly less pain on the test than the control side. Subsequent differences up to 7 days were not significant. The authors comment that bupivacaine can provide analgesia during the first 8-12 hrs after 3rd molar surgery (the period of maximum pain).