222 - Retrospective Comparison of Oral Morphine versus Meperidine for Conscious Sedation

Abstract:

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of oral morphine versus oral meperidine for conscious sedation during dental treatment in children aged 4-11 years old.

Method: A retrospective chart review was conducted of pediatric patients who received oral conscious sedation for dental treatment between January 2024 and September 2025. From eligible cases, a total of 200 patient records were reviewed, 100 patients who received oral morphine and 100 patients who received oral meperidine were randomly selected. Data collected included patient demographics, sedation medication administered, sedation time prior to starting treatment, procedure time, ability to complete planned treatment and Frankl behavior score. Sedation effectiveness was evaluated based on treatment completion and provider-documented Frankl behavior score.

Results: The chi-square test revealed a statistically significant association between the type of medication (Meperidine vs. Morphine) and Frankl behavior scores (X2)(3) = 10.50, P = (.015). This suggests that the distribution of behavior scores differs depending on the medication administered. Specifically, patients receiving Meperidine tended to have higher Frankl behavior scores compared to those receiving Morphine, indicating better overall behavioral responses with Meperidine in this sample. These findings highlight the potential impact of medication choice on patient behavior outcomes and may guide clinical decisions for optimizing care.

Conclusion: This retrospective chart review provides comparative data on oral morphine and meperidine as agents for conscious sedation in pediatric dental patients. The findings may assist pediatric dentists in selecting medications based on effectiveness and clinical outcome.

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