PAID ACCESS | Published on : 01-Dec-2025 | Pages: 10-21 | Doi : 10.37446/edibook062025/10-21
The Judicious role of narcotic analgesics is one of the essentials that reduce suffering and improve the quality of life for dying patients. Dosage, titration, adverse effects, socioeconomic beliefs, lack of awareness, and opioid-related complications complicate the use of opioid analgesics in terminal illness. This Chapter will present an overview of the proper administration of opioid analgesics in terminal illness concerning pharmacology, titration, adverse effects, and ethical considerations with Opioid usage. Proper and close monitoring of the patient's status, backed up by proper and individualized dosing and allowing opioid rotation in pain management, can secure a safe yet efficient application of such medications among these vulnerable patients. Careful consideration of these principles is essential to ensure the safe and ethical use of opioid analgesics in palliative care.
Terminal illness, Narcotic analgesics, Opioid management, Palliative care, Adverse effects
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