Recent advances in pharmacotherapy for cancer pain management

Lise K Lucas1, Arthur G Lipman

  • 1College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84112, USA.

Cancer Practice
|May 25, 2002
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Recent advances in cancer pain management include novel NSAIDs, fentanyl citrate, and adjuvant therapies for neuropathic pain. Ongoing research into NMDA receptor antagonists and bisphosphonates offers further improvements in pain relief for cancer patients.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Pain Management

Background:

  • Cyclooxygenase-2-selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and transmucosal fentanyl citrate offer new pharmacologic options for cancer pain.
  • Adjuvant agents, including antidepressants and topical analgesics, are expanding the treatment spectrum for neuropathic pain.
  • Research continues on N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists for enhanced analgesia and combating opioid resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advances in drug treatment options for cancer pain management.
  • To outline emerging strategies for effectively managing cancer pain.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent advances in pharmacologic cancer pain management.
  • Synthesis of information on novel drug classes and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • Development of cyclooxygenase-2-selective NSAIDs and transmucosal fentanyl citrate.
  • Exploration of opioid agonist-antagonist combinations for balanced analgesia.
  • Expansion of adjuvant therapies for neuropathic pain, including antidepressants and topical agents.
  • Continued investigation into NMDA receptor antagonists and potent bisphosphonates for bone metastases.

Conclusions:

  • Emerging clinical research and professional experience are driving new cancer pain management strategies.
  • Implementation of these new strategies promises continued improvement in patient care.
  • Multidisciplinary approaches are essential for optimizing cancer pain management.

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