Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 2, 2026

Assessment of Morphine-induced Hyperalgesia and Analgesic Tolerance in Mice Using Thermal and Mechanical Nociceptive Modalities
Published on: July 29, 2014
Opioid-induced hyperalgesia: pathophysiology and clinical implications.
1Department of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care, Government Medical College & Hospital, Chandigarh, India. drsmitra12@yahoo.com
Opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) is a real clinical challenge where opioids lower pain thresholds. Management strategies include dose reduction, rotation, NMDA antagonists, and coxibs.
Area of Science:
- Pain Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) is a paradoxical effect of opioid therapy.
- It manifests as reduced pain threshold, increased pain sensitivity, and allodynia despite escalating opioid doses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated, clinically focused review of OIH pathophysiology.
- To emphasize evidence-based clinical and management strategies for OIH.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search using keywords related to OIH and abnormal pain sensitivity.
- Inclusion of full-text articles and cross-referencing for robust data.
Main Results:
- OIH pathophysiology involves an imbalance in endogenous antinociceptive and pronociceptive systems.
- Distinguishing OIH from opioid tolerance is crucial for effective management.
Conclusions:
- OIH is a recognized clinical phenomenon, posing challenges in various medical settings.
- Effective management requires tailored strategies including opioid modification and adjuvant therapies.
Related Concept Videos
Analgesia and Pain Management
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Opioid Receptors: Overview
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners
Nociception
Drug Abuse and Addiction: Pharmacological Phenomena
