Methadone in the treatment of chronic nonmalignant pain: a 2-year follow-up

Abstract

Objective: To examine the longitudinal use of methadone in a pain clinic.

Design: Follow-up study of 40 patients initially treated with methadone and re-evaluated 2 years later, comparing those maintained on methadone with those who were switched to other opioids.

Setting: Pain clinic at a university hospital.

Results: The 14 patients (35%) who stayed on methadone for the duration of the study, had higher employment rates (P <.05) and higher functional ratings (P <.02) than those on other opioids. Side effects were the most common reason (33.4%) for discontinuation of methadone. Dose escalation occurred in 11 of 14 patients (78.6%).

Conclusions: Chronic pain patients may be safely and effectively treated with methadone. Those not responding or tolerating methadone may be benefited by treatment with other opioids.