Timed release analgesics: Part 2. Nonopioids

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 nonopioids 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 nonopioids. The first article in this two-part series (January/February 2001) examined narcotics.