Recent innovations in breakthrough cancer pain management

摘要

Breakthrough cancer pain (BtCP) is a common problem associated with significant morbidity and impacts on patients' quality of life. It is defined as a transitory exacerbation of pain experienced by a patient who has relatively stable and adequately controlled baseline pain (Portenoy et al, 1999). The key factors in the management of BtCP are proper assessment, good baseline pain control, and ensuring that contributing factors are addressed, e.g. diagnosing an impending fracture. However, the recent development of a range of new medications is also a positive step. This article provides a brief overview of these new medications.