[Controlled-release oxycodone--a therapeutic option for severe neuropathic pain. Two multicenter observational...

Two postmarketing studies (PMS) involving 603 patients with neuropathic pain treated with controlled-release oxycodone were performed. Pain intensity and impairment of performance were evaluated using a numeric rating scale (NRS) ranging from 0 to 10 (0 = no pain/impairment, 10 = most severe pain/impairment) measured at the start of the study, and at one week and some three weeks into the study. Mean pain intensity decreased from more than 6 at the start of the PMS to about 4 after one week, and under 3 after three weeks, of treatment. The mean dose of oxycodone after three weeks was slightly more than 40 mg per day. Impairment, quality of life and performance (daily activities, mood, sleep quality and joie de vivre) improved substantially.