Are we still scratching the surface? A case of intractable pruritus following systemic opioid analgesia.
This article describes a case of severe opioid-induced pruritus following systemic morphine administration. Symptoms did not resolve after administration of antihistamines or rotation to fentanyl or hydromorphone, but oral oxycodone and small-dose intravenous naloxone did alleviate the patient's itching. The pathogenesis of opioid-induced pruritus and the rationale for opioid rotation are briefly discussed. Current and possible future therapeutic options are mentioned.
Tarcatu
Dana
D
Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA.
Tamasdan
Cristina
C
Moryl
Natalie
N
Obbens
Eugenie
E
D000293:Adolescent; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009020:Morphine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy; D011537:Pruritus / Q000139:chemically induced*
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D009020:Morphine