Opioids for chronic noncancer pain

Abstract

Opiods have been accepted as appropriate analgesic treatment for pain associated with cancer. However, controversy exists about their use for chronic noncancer pain. Reasons for reluctance are concerned about efficacy and potential adverse effects such as respiratory depression, addiction, physical dependence or intolerance. Many physicians worry about liability and legal restrictions. Nevertheless, pain management of chronic severe pain with opioids can be the only help when alternative methods are too risky of fail to be effective. This article briefly reviews the published literature on this topic and discusses some practical guidelines for the use of opiods in the treatment of noncancer pain.