Pharmacologic management of cancer pain.

Chronic malignant pain is experienced by as many as 80% of patients with cancer. While these patients may experience either nociceptive or neuropathic pain, oftentimes a mixed presentation is encountered. Nociceptive pain may respond to opioid and nonopioid analgesics, while antidepressants and antiepileptics may be beneficial for neurogenic pain. New evidence points to efficacy of opioids for neuropathic, in addition to nociceptive pain syndromes, further clarifying the use of these agents for this patient population. When used properly, opioids are a safe and effective tool for the management of cancer pain.