Role of Ketamine and Methadone as Adjunctive Therapy in Complex Pain Management: A Case Report and Literature Review

Indian J Palliat Care. 2017 Jan-Mar;23(1):100-103. doi: 10.4103/0973-1075.197956.

Abstract

Assessment and management of complex cancer pain always remains a major challenge for any palliative care team, given its heterogeneity of underlying pathophysiology and limitations of any pharmacotherapy. Here, we present a case of complex pain management in a young patient with a life-limiting illness, highlighting the issues of organic and nonorganic contributors of pain and provide some insight into the role of ketamine and methadone as adjunctive therapy to opioid analgesics. A brief literature review is also done to provide the context of use of these adjunctive drugs in this setting.

Keywords: Ketamine; methadone; pain management.

Publication types

  • Case Reports