Researchers have assessed several drug combinations, administered in the preoperative and perioperative periods, in regard to management of the acute pain of patients with cancer. Drug combinations assessed include morphine + acetaminophen + ketoprofen + naproxen and acetaminophen + dexamethasone + dextromethorphan + celecoxib + gabapentin.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning regarding the use of gabapentin or pregabalin and serious breathing difficulties in people with respiratory risk factors, including older adults, those having conditions that reduce lung function such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and those using drugs that depress the central nervous system including opioids, anti-anxiety medication, antidepressants, and antihistamines.