Pain Medication for Cancer

Cancer is an abnormal overgrowth of cells that spread, interfere with normal bodily functions, draw nutrients from healthy tissues, and crowd out healthy cells. Cancer must be treated to avoid complications and possible death. Treatments may cause pain; however, pain medications are available that offer relief.

Significance

• According to the Mayo Clinic, 1 out of 3 people undergoing cancer treatment experience some level of pain. For patients with advanced cancer, the level of pain is higher.

Causes

• Cancer pain may be caused by the cancer itself; a growing tumor can put pressure on nerves, organs and bone. Pain can also be a result of treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, as well as the chemicals that cancer may secrete into the body.

Pain Medications

• Oral medications are commonly recommended to help relieve cancer pain. These include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, and analgesics that include acetaminophen and aspirin. For severe pain, opioid medications such as codeine, morphine and oxycodone may be prescribed.

Side Effects

• A common side effect for patients taking opioid medications is constipation. Other side effects include sleepiness, lethargy and confusion. The less potent pain medications can have greater side effects. Anti-inflammatory medications may cause ulcers, increase blood pressure and damage kidneys; too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage; and, aspirin can cause gastrointestinal bleeding.

Considerations

• Some cancer patients do not receive adequate pain treatment because they are afraid of the side effects, becoming addicted, or are uncomfortable about approaching the subject with their doctor. Cancer pain can and should be controlled. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you experience pain that interferes with your life or is persistent, it needs to be reported and should be treated.