I would push for a med change. Most of us used Duragesic, 72 hours time release patches. Additionally, I had morphine sulphate for breakthrough pain. I am surprised that her MO isn't managing the medications.

Most people go through an adjustment period when starting out on long term opioids. Make sure that she is closely watched - meds, fluid and nutrient intake, assistance to the bathroom, etc.

If she has no MO here is a link to the NCCN Oncology Practice Guidelines for pain management - print and give him a copy.

http://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/PDF/pain.pdf

The pain will get worse for at least a few more weeks due to the residual effect of the radiation.

Pain management is a basic patient right - DEMAND IT!

Gary Allsebrook
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Dx 11/22/02, SCC, 6 x 3 cm Polypoid tumor, rt tonsil, Stage III/IVA, T3N0M0 G1/2
Tx 1/28/03 - 3/19/03, Cisplatin ct x2, IMRT, bilateral, with boost, x35(69.96Gy)
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"You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14 NIV)