A Retrospective Survey of 28 Cases with Opioid Switching by Adding Methadone to the Preceding Opioid

ABSTRACT

The guide to proper use of methadone in Japan describes the SAG method (a method of stopping all leading opioids and starting methadone). Based on strict evaluation, our palliative care department introduces methadone by adding to the preceding opioid, and then tapering or discontinuation the preceding opioid. This time, we considered the clinical significance of 28 patients who received this method. In 20 of 28 cases (71.4%), methadone reached the maximum dose, and methadone titration could be safely performed without exacerbation of pain or serious adverse events. However, in order for this method to be performed safely, it is necessary to pay attention to the pharmacological properties of methadone, which has a long half-life, and to make a detailed evaluation and drug adjustment of the analgesic effect and adverse events after the introduction of methadone.