Abstract
Opioids are the mainstay of treatment for moderate (4-7/10 on a numerical scale) and severe (above 7/10) cancer-related pain. In most patients, they rapidly lead to noticeable and satisfactory relief; however, in a proportion of patients, a thorough search for the optimal regimen is required.
As for the doctor, knowledge of this particular drug class, experience, patience, and communicative skills are all required. Based on the current literature, the review article describes the perception of opioid treatment by both professionals and lay people and summarizes ethical considerations.
In addition to an overview of available opioids and their antagonists, the most common clinical scenarios are presented, adverse effects are summarized, and tips from practice are included.