Expert opinion on drug safety
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Pain management with opioids is a fundamental element of palliative medicine. Since the risks of chronic opioid therapy have emerged, a reassessment of these risks in the setting of palliative care is warranted. ⋯ Palliation of severe pain at the end of life is probably the most widely accepted indication for chronic opioid therapy. At increased doses, adverse effects of opioids may limit or interfere with the benefits of treatment. Careful screening and follow-up will allow risk factors to be recognized and addressed when possible. The use of adjunctive treatments for pain may reduce opioid requirements and yield better outcomes.