Cancer pain management

American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, Summer 1998 by Skaer, Tracy L

The majority of patients with advanced cancer have pain described as intense or excruciating. Morphine SR with convenient Q12H ATC administration is the medication of choice. Morphine can be administered subcutaneously, intravenously, and rectally which provides enhanced flexibility for dosing patients unable to take oral medications. Fentanyl TTS is a convenient dosing alternative when oral morphine preparations are not tolerated. Finally, some patients with advanced cancer may require other adjunctive medications such as NSAIAs, TCADs, steroids, benzodiazepines, and/or anticonvulsants, as well as, psychologic techniques, to assist in pain management. The decision to utilize these adjunctive therapies will depend on each patient's clinical progress.

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