Switching to low-dose oral prolonged-release oxycodone/naloxone from WHO-step i drugs in elderly patients with chronic pain at high risk of early opioid discontinuation

Chronic pain has a high prevalence in the aging population. Strong opioids also should be considered in older people for the treatment of moderate to severe pain or for pain that impairs functioning and the quality of life. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of the direct switch to low-dose strong opioids (World Health Organization-Step III drugs) in elderly, opioid-naive patients.