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Assessment of Morphine-induced Hyperalgesia and Analgesic Tolerance in Mice Using Thermal and Mechanical Nociceptive Modalities
Published on: July 29, 2014
Management of common opioid-induced adverse effects
John M Swegle1, Craig Logemann
1Mercy Family Medicine Residency Program, Mason City, Iowa 50401-2859, USA. john-swegle@uiowa.edu
American Family Physician
|November 8, 2006
Summary
Opioid analgesics effectively manage pain but can cause side effects. This review details strategies for managing common adverse effects like nausea, constipation, sedation, and pruritus to improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Pain Management
- Clinical Therapeutics
Background:
- Opioid analgesics are vital for pain relief across various conditions.
- Adverse effects are significant limitations to their therapeutic use.
- Effective management strategies are crucial for optimizing opioid therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize strategies for minimizing and managing common adverse effects associated with opioid analgesics.
- To provide guidance on selecting appropriate treatments for opioid-induced side effects.
- To enhance the safe and effective use of opioid pain medications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of strategies for opioid adverse effect management.
- Analysis of common side effects including nausea, constipation, sedation, and pruritus.
- Discussion of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
Main Results:
- Nausea affects ~25% of patients; antiemetics (antipsychotics, prokinetics, serotonin antagonists) are indicated.
- Constipation is expected with chronic use; combination laxatives (stool softener + stimulant) are preferred over monotherapy.
- Sedation and cognitive changes require medication review and judicious use of CNS stimulants or antipsychotics.
- Pruritus is typically non-allergic; antihistamines are the primary treatment if pharmacotherapy is needed.
Conclusions:
- Proactive and targeted management of opioid-induced adverse effects is essential.
- Understanding mechanisms aids in selecting optimal symptomatic treatments.
- Minimizing side effects improves patient adherence and overall treatment success with opioid analgesics.
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