Depending on the pain intensity, various analgesics are used in the prevention of surgical wound pain. For severe pain, opioids like piritramide and morphine are used. These can be given at fixed intervals, continuously, as required or by patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). The method used depends on the equipment and supervision available and on the patient's cooperation. However, with all the methods of administration mentioned there is a risk of respiratory depression because strong opioids are used. Weak opioids like tramadol can be given as alternatives to piritramide and morphine, a combination of tramadol and metamizol having proven effective. Often an antiemetic is given as well, as many patients who receive the combination experience nausea and vomiting. For mild pain metamizol or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is often sufficient on its own.