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Updated: Sep 20, 2025

Determining Pain Detection and Tolerance Thresholds Using an Integrated, Multi-Modal Pain Task Battery
Published on: April 14, 2016
Opioid analgesics: Managing the predictable
A Barnes1, G Heppenstall-Harris2, A Dickman3
1Woodlands Hospice, Liverpool University Hospital Foundation Trust (LUHFT), Liverpool, UK.
Abstract:
It is imperative for clinicians to understand the common adverse effects of opioid therapy and ensure patients are properly counselled on them prior to opioid initiation. Predictable adverse effects are wide ranging, and include bowel dysfunction, nausea, sedation, endocrinopathy and pruritis. Many adverse effects (with the notable exception of constipation) improve with time; however, patients should undergo regular re-assessment to identify new or evolving symptoms. Opioid rotation can also be a useful therapeutic tool to mitigate intolerable opioid adverse effects. This article aims to provide a succinct review of important adverse effects and effective management techniques to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.
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