Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 2, 2026

Author Spotlight: Methodologies and Advancements of Chronic Pain Management Research
Published on: January 5, 2024
Breakthrough Cancer Pain: A Systematic Review of Pharmacologic Management
Jeannine M Brant1, Barbara B Rodgers2, Eva Gallagher3
1Billings Clinic Hospital.
Background:
Breakthrough cancer pain (BtCP), defined as a transient exacerbation of pain that occurs in conjunction with well-controlled background pain, is a common and burdensome problem in patients with cancer. .
Objectives:
The aim of this systematic review is to identify evidence-based pharmacologic modalities for adequate management of BtCP. .
Methods:
PubMed and CINAHL® databases were searched to identify literature regarding pharmacologic strategies for BtCP published from January 2006 to June 2016. These studies were then synthesized by the Oncology Nursing Society Putting Evidence Into Practice pain team. .
Findings:
Forty-four studies provide evidence for the use of opioids for the management of BtCP. Transmucosal immediate-release fentanyl (TIRF) was found to have the most evidence for BtCP. Five studies and guidelines also suggest that oral opioids (not including TIRF products) be dosed proportionally to baseline opioids at 10%-20% of the 24-hour, around-the-clock dose.
Related Concept Videos
Analgesia and Pain Management
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Neurokinin-1 Receptor Antagonists
Angina IV: Management
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners

