Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2003 Mar; 84(3 Suppl 1): S50-6.

Interventions in chronic pain management. 4. Medications in pain management.

Ericksen JJ, Braverman DL, Shah RV.

Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia Campus, Richmond, VA 23298, USA. jerickse@hsc.vcu.edu

This self-directed learning module, which highlights pharmacologic approaches in the management of chronic pain, focuses on both traditional and nontraditional medications. It is part of the study guide on interventions in chronic pain management in the Self-Directed Physiatric Education Program for practitioners and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation. This article highlights medication concepts, including the cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors, opiate management of chronic pain, and neuropathic pain management; and it reviews some nontraditional approaches such as homeopathy and herbal remedies. OVERALL ARTICLE OBJECTIVE: To summarize pharmacologic approaches available for the management of chronic pain syndromes.