Pain Management In Cancer

Question 1

Opioid cessation strategy in a pt taking opioids for <2 weeks

Answer 1

Stop immediately

Question 2

Opioid cessation strategy in a pt taking opioids for 2 to 4 weeks

Answer 2

Taper by 10-50% /week

Once the smallest dose available is reached, increase the interval between doses, then stop the drug if 24 hrs had passed with no withdrawal symptoms

Question 3

Opioid cessation strategy in a pt taking opioids for >1 month

Answer 3

Taper by 10% /week
Once the smallest dose available is reached, increase the interval between doses, then stop the drug if 24 hrs had passed with no withdrawal symptoms