[Opioid analgesics in the treatment of non-malignant chronic pain]

Opioid sensitivity, residual pain, development of tolerance, physical and psychological dependence are described and discussed in relation to long-term opioid therapy. Based on this, guidelines for long-term opioid administration are established for chronic pain conditions of non-cancer origin. The indication must be well-considered--a life-long treatment may be instituted. Prior to final initiation of the treatment, a testing of the selected drug and method of administration should be performed. Due to the compliance-reasons, only long acting opioids should be used (controlled release morphine preparations, methadone, buprenorphine) and the route of administration should always be oral. The treatment must be individualised, covering 24 hours a day. The single dosages should be identical and administered with identical time intervals, which are determined by the duration of action of the drug in use. P.r.n.-administration should not be allowed. Only one physician should be responsible for the treatment and for the prescription of the opioid analgesic drugs.