Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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We determined whether intrathecally delivering the same daily dose of morphine (MS) at a fixed concentration of 25 mg/mL by periodic boluses versus continuous infusion would reduce intrathecal mass (IMs) formation in dogs. ⋯ Using multiple bolus dosing, IMs were reduced as compared to continuous infusion, suggesting relevance of bolus delivery in yielding reduced intrathecal masses.
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Conversion between routes such as intravenous (IV), epidural (EP), and intrathecal (IT) routes for morphine is well established. Conversion ratios for IV:EP:IT fentanyl and conversion from IT morphine/hydromorphone to IT fentanyl have been challenging given the lipophilic nature of fentanyl. Our study reviews the outcomes and conversion ratios reached after converting IT opioids from morphine/hydromorphone to fentanyl in patients with IT pumps. ⋯ Given the pharmacokinetics of lipophilic fentanyl compared to hydrophilic morphine/hydromorphone, the current conversion ratio of IV fentanyl to IT fentanyl and IV morphine to IT fentanyl appears to be conservative.
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DMT-DALDA (H-Dmt-D-Arg-Phe-Lys-NH2; Dmt = 2',6'-dimethyltyrosine) is a selective mu opioid agonist. We sought to characterize efficacy, tolerance, dependence and side-effect profile when given by continuous intrathecal infusion. ⋯ These data suggest that DMT-DALDA is a potent, spinally active agonist with a propensity to produce tolerance dependence and mast cell degranulation. While it was equiactive to morphine in producing mast cell degranulation, it was >1000 fold more potent in producing analgesia, suggesting a possible lower risk in producing a spinal mass at equianalgesic doses.
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Two patients previously implanted with intrathecal Baclofen (ITB) pumps for management of intractable spasticity due to multiple sclerosis (MS) were referred to our center for ongoing management of their spasticity. Initial evaluation of these patients revealed high levels of spasticity in the presence of ITB doses 10 times the average daily dose of our other MS patients. ⋯ These cases illustrate the need for early ITB pump troubleshooting to identify catheter problems, improve efficacy, and avoid unnecessary healthcare costs.