ABSTRACT
Introduction: A problem of endodontic origin is solved mainly by cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system. However, the use of medicines for systemic use is a great auxiliary in combating pain, inflammation and/or infection, making easier to treat the clinical status, that patient experiences less pain. Objective: To conduct a literature review evidencing the clinical indications of systemic medication application in endodontics, to aid the professional in achieving more effective and safer therapeutics. Literature review: There is a wide variety of drugs available on market. Consequently, the dentist is uncertain when prescribing systemic medication because a pharmacological arsenal is available. Also, the dentist frequently does not know the mechanism of action of these drugs and their interactions. Additionally to analgesics, anti-inflammatories and antibiotics, used to combat pain, inflammation and infection, respectively, dentists can still make use of anxiolytics, in cases of patients very fearful to endodontic treatment. Conclusion: It is of fundamental importance that the dentist knows about the medication type to be used in each case and whether systemic therapy is really necessary, through a comprehensive case evaluation.