Cancer Pain Drugs

Pharmacology Cancer exam

What are the two major types of cancer pain?

Nociceptive pain; neuropathic pain

What causes nociceptive pain?

Tissue injury such as tumors

What is somatic pain?

Localized and sharp nociceptive pain

What is visceral pain?

Diffuse and achy nociceptive pain

What causes neuropathic pain?

Injury to peripheral nerves

What are the three major analgesic drug categories?

Nonopioids; opioids; adjuvant analgesics

Examples of NSAIDs used for cancer pain?

Aspirin; ibuprofen; naproxen sodium; celecoxib

What is special about celecoxib?

Selective COX‑2 inhibitor; more gentle to the gut

Major adverse effects of NSAIDs?

Bleeding; renal impairment

What is the other main nonopioid besides NSAIDs?

Acetaminophen

Examples of opioids used for cancer pain?

Oxycodone; fentanyl; morphine sulfate

Which opioid is great for end‑of‑life pain?

Morphine sulfate

Common side effects of opioids?

Respiratory depression; sedation; nausea and vomiting; constipation

What are adjuvant analgesics?

Drugs used for other conditions that help with cancer pain

Example of a tricyclic antidepressant used for pain?

Amitriptyline

Example of an antidepressant used for pain?

Duloxetine

Example of an antiseizure drug used for pain?

Carbamazepine

Example of a topical anesthetic used for pain?

Lidocaine patch

Example of a CNS stimulant used for pain?

Methylphenidate

Examples of glucocorticoids used for cancer pain?

Prednisone; solumedrol; dexamethasone

Examples of bisphosphonates used for cancer pain?

Pamidronate; zoledronic acid

What do bisphosphonates help with?

Lower calcium in hypercalcemia; reduce bone pain