Pharmacological research : the official journal of the Italian Pharmacological Society
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Untreated acute postoperative pain can transform into chronic pain that may have major negative effects on the individual's quality of life. It can also prolong recovery, rehabilitation and length of hospital stay, thus affecting societal economic burden. ⋯ The most important adjuncts currently employed are ketamine and gabapentinoids. They have been shown to help in reaching the desired effect when administered at drug-specific modes and at proven effective dosing throughout the perioperative period.