An update on the role of opioids in the management of chronic pain of nonmalignant origin.
OBJECTIVE
To summarize and reflect over primarily recent epidemiological and randomized controlled trials in opioid-treated chronic nonmalignant pain patients, focusing on effects, side effects, risks and long-term consequences of the treatment.


RESULTS
In the western world opioids are increasingly being used for long-term treatment of chronic nonmalignant pain. While the long-term benefits of opioids regarding pain relief, functional capacity and health-related quality of life still remain to be proven, studies are emerging that describe serious long-term consequences such as addiction, opioid-induced hyperalgesia, cognitive disorders, and suppression of the immune and reproductive systems.


CONCLUSIONS
Much more research is needed concerning long-time effects and consequences of opioid therapy in chronic nonmalignant pain patients; however, some clear warning signals have been sent out within recent years.
Højsted
Jette
J
Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
Sjøgren
Per
P
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000818:Animals; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003718:Denmark; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009293:Opioid-Related Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013997:Time Factors
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid