Which analgesic is commonly used for perioperative analgesia in mice after minor surgery?

• A. Morphine
• B. Meloxicam
• C. Acetaminophen
• D. Aspirin

Answer: (B)

When addressing perioperative analgesia in mice after minor surgery, the aim is effective pain control with minimal impact on physiology and experimental outcomes. Meloxicam fits this well because it is an NSAID with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, and it is relatively gentle on the gastrointestinal tract due to its COX-2–preferential action. This makes it a practical choice to provide pain relief before and after surgery with a safer profile for short-term postoperative use in mice, helping to reduce stress and improve recovery.

Morphine can provide strong analgesia, but it brings predictable side effects such as respiratory depression, sedation, and potential effects on body temperature and behavior, which can confound experimental results. Acetaminophen may offer some analgesia but is often less effective for postoperative pain in rodents and carries a risk of liver toxicity if misused. Aspirin also increases bleeding risk due to its antiplatelet effects, making it less suitable for the perioperative period.

So, meloxicam is commonly chosen for perioperative analgesia in mice after minor surgery because it balances effective pain relief with safety and practicality in the surgical recovery window.