Journal of opioid management
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This survey highlights the perspective of patients with chronic pain when confronted with the possibility of abrupt opioid discontinuation. ⋯ These data suggest that opioid therapy discontinuation is an emotionally distressing experience for most patients, and the transition to nonopioid treatments is a complex process that will require patient participation to achieve optimal care.
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Slow release (SR) opioids around the clock are the mainstay for moderate to strong cancer pain. This recommendation is not scientifically based. Therefore, a phase 1 pilot study of rapid acting nasal fentanyl (NF) taken on demand as the only opioid for cancer pain to explore feasibility and safety aspects was launched. ⋯ This explorative study suggests that it is reasonable that the concept of treating pain in patients with cancer using NF on demand can undergo controlled clinical studies.