Implantable drug delivery systems

Abstract

The authors present the usage of implantable drug delivery systems with special attention paid to intrathecal and epidural administration of opioids through subcutaneous implantable pumps. Such pumps are presented as a treatment of choice for all patients who can on the one hand afford the system and who have a life expectancy of more than 60 days. The authors also present the possible risks of long-term application of opioids through implantable systems.