A retrospective study on the use of oral morphine in cancer pain

The authors report a retrospective study of 390 cancer pain patients tested with oral morphine during a four-month period. Initial pain scores were reduced to one half after one week of treatment and then maintained throughout the study period. Mean daily dosages of morphine were lower in those patients 65 years and older. No significant changes in performance in relation to therapy were noted except for an increase in hours of sleep. An accurate titration of dosage and continued control of side effects are the main requirements of this method of administration. The presence of side effects and the cause of interruption of treatment are reported.