Timed release analgesics: Part 1. Narcotics

The problem of relieving patients' pain is a major challenge for health care professionals. New formulations of time-released pain medications offer exciting possibilities. However, there are cautions and patient education factors that are important when considering any timed-release product. This article looks at selected timed-release forms of narcotics used for pain relief. Knowledge of the differences and similarities, benefits and cautions, and patient education factors will help the reader make safer and more informed decisions about prescribing and administering timed-release narcotics.