Canterbury DHB
Opioids may be required initially for severe pain or when milder analgesics have failed. Morphine is the drug of choice – Panadeine/ Codeine/ Tramadol should be discontinued but Paracetamol +/- NSAID should be continued.
Methadone, Oxycodone and Transdermal Fentanyl (Durogesic™) are alternative strong opioids that are available for use in palliative patients under specific circumstances. Further information on these drugs is found later in this section.
The funding status of these opioid medications may alter and patients should be prescribed the one which is fully funded if possible. Check with a pharmacist if unsure.
Note: Please read ALL of this section prior to prescribing.
Topic Code: 4048