| Abstract: | Discusses properties and pharmacological effects of medications for pain, including peripherally acting analgesics, centrally acting narcotics, and adjuvant analgesics including antidepressants. The role of the endogenous opioid system in pain and depression is discussed. Clinical management issues in both inpatient and outpatient settings are explored, with emphasis on the need to address the psychosocial context in which medications are prescribed. (52 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
