Development of an opioid-taper algorithm for hematopoietic cell transplant recipients.
OBJECTIVE
To describe an opioid taper algorithm for hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients and its development.


METHODS
Nonresearch-based published guidelines, published research on opioid withdrawal symptoms, clinical experience, and multidisciplinary consultant recommendations.


RESULTS
Many HCT recipients receive opioid therapy for several weeks and thus become physically dependent on opioids. If opioids are discontinued abruptly or tapered too rapidly, patients may experience discomfort from withdrawal symptoms. An algorithm can guide clinicians in providing patient care.


CONCLUSIONS
No research-based opioid-taper guidelines exist in the literature; existing guidelines vary widely and are not specific to HCT recipients. Thus, the algorithm addresses a gap in the literature and also provides flexibility when dealing with patient discomfort.


CONCLUSIONS
Use of an algorithm may promote consistency of opioid tapering and patient comfort.
Blood and Marrow Transplant Department, Fairview University Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA. lparran1@fairview.org
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D000465:Algorithms; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D018380:Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000451:nursing; D006801:Humans; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control*; D019172:Transplantation Conditioning / Q000009:adverse effects
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid