A subcutaneous polymeric opioid delivery system for the treatment of cancer pain

The optimal control of pain related to cancer requires the use of potent opioid analgesics. Despite significant efforts by the World Health Organization and other international agencies, oral morphine and other opioids remain largely unavailable to 80% of the world’s population. As more cancer cases are being diagnosed in the developing world than elsewhere, large numbers of patients worldwide suffer from cancer-related pain without reasonable therapeutic options. This manuscript describes a polymeric opioid delivery system designed to provide opioids subcutaneously at a continuous rate for 1–3 months alleviating concerns regarding compliance, misuse, diversion and costs. This approach to opioid administration could substantially impact the global treatment of patients with cancer pain.