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Patient controlled analgesia system

Pain relief is called analgesia. In most cancer patients, cancer pain can be controlled safely and effectively. All cancer patients should expect good pain control as part of their care. When pain is severe, pain control can be achieved by receiving small doses of pain medication whenever needed. This usually results in a lower total daily dose of the pain medication.

When oral doses of pain medication no longer provide relief or cannot be taken, intravenous (IV) therapy can be used. Intravenous therapy requires that a small tube be placed in a vein so the medication can be given through the blood stream. A special machine assists the patient in taking the intravenous pain medication. The machine allows the patient to trigger the release of the medication as needed. The process is called "patient controlled analgesia."

Patients using this method report good pain relief. Sedation is minimized and there are few side effects. Anxiety is lowered because patients feel more independent and in control of their situation. Their quality of life improves. This is especially important for cancer patients with a chronic condition.

Consult the UI Health Care Cancer Information Service for more information about this topic.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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