Understanding the genetic determinants of pain and pain management

Abstract

Objectives: To review the role of inter-individual differences in responses to pain and analgesics and to describe how these differences impact the effectiveness of therapies for patients who have cancer pain.

Data sources: Published research articles and clinical experience.

Conclusion: Individuals' genetic predisposition can affect their therapeutic response to analgesics. With the rapidly advancing field of pharmacogenetics, soon our therapeutic strategies will be targeted based on patients' genetics.

Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nurses will be better able to individualize their therapeutic strategies for patients in pain.