Analgesic agents for the postoperative period. Opioids.

Opioids are the most commonly used medication for patients with acute pain. Morphine is the prototype with which all other opioids are compared. Synthetic and semisynthetic derivatives of morphine have unique properties, allowing for the use of a larger selection of medication. An understanding of the mechanisms of action, adverse effects, and routes of administration of the various potent opioids is important for good postoperative pain management.