Name a commonly prescribed post-operative medication after tooth extraction.

The commonly prescribed post-operative medication after tooth extraction is analgesics for pain relief. After an extraction, patients typically experience discomfort or pain as part of the healing process. Analgesics, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen, are recommended to help manage this pain effectively. The utilization of analgesics addresses the patient's immediate need for comfort and supports a smoother recovery.

Antibiotics may be prescribed in specific situations, especially if there is a risk of infection, but they are not universally given to all patients following every extraction. The routine use of antibiotics in post-operative care has become more conservative to minimize antibiotic resistance and side effects.

Antidepressants are not involved in post-operative care for tooth extractions and do not address pain or infection related to the procedure. Antacids, while helpful for gastric issues, are unrelated to dental surgeries and do not serve a purpose in managing post-extraction care. Thus, analgesics remain the primary choice for most patients recovering from tooth extractions.