Getting Control of Breakthrough Cancer Pain
Posted on Thu, Feb 11, 2010 @ 07:50 AM
Many people with chronic cancer-related pain experience intermittent flares of pain that can occur even though a person is taking analgesic pain medication. These severe flares of pain are called breakthrough pain because the pain "breaks through" the regular pain medication. In fact a recently published study found people who suffer from breakthrough pain stated that :
47% say their pain is due to their cancer treatment.
96% have a breakthrough pain episode at least once a month; 71% have one at least once a week. More than 20% have several pain episodes each day.
73% say they wake up with breakthrough pain at least one night each month.
60% say their pain interferes with their relationships.
66% say their breakthrough cancer pain causes them financial difficulties.
25% say they can't pay for prescribed pain treatments.
Almost all people experiencing chronic cancer pain should receive pain medications for consistent pain managment AND a medication specifically for treatment of breakthrough pain. If this has not been offered to you, discuss this with your health care provider. The ideal medication for breakthrough cancer pain should be easily administered, work rapidly, and fit your specific needs.
Bayview Pharmacy, Rhode Island's premier compounding pharmacy
has the ability to compound many types of medications that are easily administered, work rapidly, and since they are compounded, are made to meet your specific needs. Examples would be:
- Fentanyl
- Buprenorphine
- Morphine
These medications can be compounded at doses to meet your needs, and in delivery forms that are easy to administer and promote rapid uptake. Examples might include:
- Intranasal Sprays
- Transdermal Gels
- Troches
For more specific information, and to discuss your options with one of our specially trained compounding pharmacists, contact us at your convenience.