Cancer pain management: long-term maintenance therapy

Abstract

This is a case report regarding a patient on maintenance therapy with methadone wth cancer pain. Minimal increase in methadone dose and a better modulation of administration intervals were effective, allowing the achievement of an optimal analgesia in a short time. This effect was maintained at home after discharge up the last follow-up 3 weeks after discharge. Existing literature is discussed and it is suggested to use the same drug, methadone, in increased doses.

Keywords: Cancer; Drug administration; Head and neck; Hospital care; Pain; Supportive care.