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Related Experiment Videos

Prescribing analgesics. How to improve function and avoid toxicity when treating chronic pain.

S D Feinberg1

  • 1Department of Anesthesia, Stanford University Medical Center, USA.

Geriatrics
|November 22, 2000
PubMed
Summary

Pain management in older adults often relies on analgesic drugs. Careful prescription ensures safe use of these medications, including non-opioid and opioid analgesics, for chronic pain relief.

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Area of Science:

  • Geriatric Medicine
  • Pain Management
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Analgesic drugs are frequently preferred over non-drug therapies for pain in older patients.
  • While adverse reactions are a concern, analgesics can be safely administered for chronic pain in this population with careful physician oversight.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the safe and effective use of analgesic and adjuvant medications for pain management in older adults.
  • To highlight considerations for prescribing various classes of pain relievers in geriatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature and clinical guidelines on pain management in the elderly.
  • Categorization of analgesic and adjuvant drug classes relevant to older patients.
  • Discussion of potential benefits, risks, and specific prescribing considerations for each drug class.

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Main Results:

  • Non-opioid analgesics (acetaminophen, aspirin, NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors) are common treatment options.
  • Opioid analgesics require careful monitoring for side effects and functional improvement.
  • Adjuvant medications like antidepressants and anticonvulsants may be beneficial, while benzodiazepines and muscle relaxants warrant caution due to potential harm and overuse.

Conclusions:

  • Analgesics can be used safely in older patients with chronic pain when prescribed judiciously.
  • A tailored approach considering drug class, patient-specific factors, and potential adverse effects is crucial for effective pain management in geriatrics.
  • Topical agents show promise for specific neuropathic pain conditions in older adults.