In:
International Journal of Cancer, Wiley, Vol. 107, No. 3 ( 2003-11-10), p. 486-492
Kurzfassung:
There is emerging data supporting the use of TTS‐F (transdermal therapeutic system‐fentanyl) in opioid naive patients. Our study examines the safety and efficacy of TTS‐F in the long‐term control of cancer pain in opioid naive patients and those transferring from oral morphine. Pain was assessed in 589 patients (Group A: 268 opioid naive, Group B: 321 transferring from morphine) using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS; 0–10), based on selected questions from the Greek Brief Pain Inventory (GBPI). Overall treatment satisfaction was assessed on a 4‐point scale. Quality of Life (QOL) and ECOG (0–4) status were also recorded. These were assessed in relation to TTS‐F dose, pain type (neuropathic, combined, nociceptive), concomitant use of anti‐inflammatory drugs and other demographic data. Of 589 patients, 59 (10%) withdrew as a result of inadequate pain satisfaction or for other reasons. There were no discontinuations due to side effects; no Grade 3–4 events occurred. A total of 530 continued on‐study, 211 patients died during study period and 295 departed; all (506; 89%) were satisfied with their pain relief. Analysis of patients at baseline, 28 days, 6 and 12 month time points ( n = 153 Group A; n = 214 Group B) with respect to QOL and pain measures indicated a statistically significant ( p 〈 0.001) improvement in all measures across time independent of pain type, or any other patient characteristic(s). In patients with intolerable pain, transfer to TTS‐F offers an efficient and safe long‐term analgesic option. TTS‐F offers durable long‐term maintenance of pain relief with acceptable side effects in opioid naive patients. In general, TTS‐F as a first line analgesic approach for carefully selected and monitored patients experiencing moderate to severe cancer pain should be considered. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Materialart:
Online-Ressource
ISSN:
0020-7136
,
1097-0215
Sprache:
Englisch
Verlag:
Wiley
Publikationsdatum:
2003
ZDB Id:
218257-9
ZDB Id:
1474822-8
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