Analgesics in Cancer Pain: Current Practices and Beliefs
Author Information
Author(s): I.D. White, P.J. Hoskin, G.W. Hanks, J.M. Bliss
Primary Institution: Royal Marsden Hospital
Hypothesis
Are current prescribing practices for cancer pain management among UK doctors aligned with effective pain control principles?
Conclusion
Most doctors now prefer to use regular oral morphine or diamorphine for severe cancer pain, with no arbitrary upper dose limit.
Supporting Evidence
- 66% of doctors chose morphine as their first choice for severe cancer pain.
- 84% of respondents preferred the oral route for administering analgesics.
- Fears of addiction and respiratory depression are no longer major deterrents for using strong opioids.
Takeaway
Doctors are getting better at using strong painkillers for cancer, and they understand that they shouldn't worry too much about addiction or breathing problems.
Methodology
A postal questionnaire was distributed to doctors in various medical practices across the UK to assess their prescribing practices for cancer pain.
Potential Biases
Responses may be biased due to the self-reported nature of the questionnaire and the low response rate.
Limitations
The overall response rate was low at 42%, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Doctors from specialist oncology hospitals, teaching hospitals, general hospitals, and general practitioners in urban and suburban areas.
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