Chronic pain of osteoarthritis: considerations for selecting an extended-release opioid analgesic.

Chronic/persistent pain due to osteoarthritis is one of the most common pain conditions affecting Americans today. Inadequate pain relief or dissatisfaction with current treatments is a source of frustration and suffering for patients with chronic/persistent pain. The requirement of multiple doses of commonly used analgesics to maintain adequate pain relief is inconvenient for many patients with osteoarthritis-related chronic pain. The several extended-release opioid analgesics that have been developed may provide an opportunity for improved patient convenience; however, clinicians must consider adverse event profiles, pharmacokinetics, abuse potential, and controlled substance-scheduling status of extended-release opioid analgesics. The purpose of this review is to highlight the efficacy and safety of extended-release opioid analgesics utilized in the management plan of chronic pain due to osteoarthritis.