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Opioids for Cancer Pain
Opioids are types of medicine used to relieve moderate to severe pain. They are also called opiates or narcotics and are a type of analgesic (painkilling) medicine. Opioids work in the brain and other parts of the body by attaching to pain receptors to block the feeling of pain. Some people with cancer need opioids for cancer-related pain.
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Developed by the American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team with medical review and contribution by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).
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Last Revised: August 8, 2024
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