Diflunisal--a long-acting non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. A review of its pharmacology and effectiveness in management of postoperative dental pain.

Diflunisal is frequently used for management of postoperative dental pain as it has some advantages over other commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs including improved analgesia, a prolonged duration of action lasting up to 12 hours, and a low incidence of side effects. The aim of this paper is to review the relevant pharmacologic actions of the drug including its mechanism of action in suppressing the inflammatory response, and indications for its use in dentistry. Diflunisal can be safely recommended for the dental patient following oral surgery and exodontia, periodontal surgery and endodontic surgery.