Journal of palliative medicine
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Repeat dose opioids may be effective for breathlessness in chronic heart failure if given for long enough.
The longer-term effects of opioids for breathlessness are not known in people with chronic heart failure (CHF). ⋯ Opioids given for 3 months were well tolerated and safe. Opioid-related improvement in breathlessness in people with CHF might not be seen until longer-term administration. We cannot conclude from these data that they are effective and a longer-term RCT is needed.