The speed of onset and duration of analgesics effect depends upon the
specific drug(s), dosage form, and route of administration. Drug doses
and frequency should be titrated to the individual patients response and
analgesic needs when changing the dosage form or route of
administration. Adjuvant drugs – including antihistamines and
corticosteriods – are valuable during all phases of pain management to
enhance pain relieve, treat concurrent symptoms, and counteract the side
effects.
Successful long-term pain management requires rapid, flexible, and
expert responses to the changing needs of the patient. Patients and
their loved ones should never allow pain to continue amid concerns about
“being a complainer,“ medication-related side effects, or fear of
addiction or loss of control as a result of using pain medication.
Patients with pain or other distressing symptoms that persist despite
the best efforts of their current healthcare provider should request a
referral or seek specialists in pain management or palliative care.
