The use of buprenorphine in the treatment of chronic pain in the pain clinic

Introduction: The increased use of opioids in the treatment of chronic non-cancer pain has been observed in recent years. Buprenorphine is an opioid analgesic with an established position in pain therapy. Due to the unique pharmacological profile it is attractive to use in the outpatient clinic. The big advantage of the drug is the lack of tolerance induced by opioids and, theoretically, a high safety profile. The aim of the study is to analyse the use and safety profile of buprenorphine in patients with chronic nonmalignant pain at the Outpatient Pain Treatment Clinic.

Material and methods: The records of patients treated at the Outpatient Pain Treatment Clinic were subjected to a retrospective analysis, as it was reported to the National Health Fund.

Results: Buprenorphine was used in 9% of patients and it represented more than 50% in the group of opioid drugs. The largest group of patients consisted of those with the back pain in the lumbosacral segment. The most demanded choice was transdermal buprenorphine. There were no serious complications or critical side effects. For 3% of patients aged 65 years and more it was necessary to reduce the dose to improve the cognitive function. Due to the skin side effects it was also necessary to rotate the transdermal formulation.

Conclusions: Buprenorphine, which is preferred as the treatment of choice in chronic nonmalignant pain syndromes, is also effective and safe. The dose and form of the drug should be adjusted to the state and condition of the patient.