Epidural and Intrathecal Drug Delivery Systems for Chronic Pain Management: Progress, Promises, and Challenges a narrative review
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Abstract
Millions of people worldwide suffer from chronic pain, which significantly impacts their quality of life. Managing chronic pain is often complex and time-consuming. In this narrative review, we explore the use of epidural and intrathecal drug delivery systems (EIDDS) as a solution for chronic pain management. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of recent approaches in targeted implantable drug delivery systems for chronic pain management, including their long-term safety, efficacy, cost-effectiveness, risks, and future opportunities and challenges. The data was gathered through extensive research using MEDLINE, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases, including studies published until June 13, 2023. The visual analogue scale, Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS), respiration, and oxygen saturation in the group receiving drugs through a targeted implantable drug delivery system were significantly better than those in the group receiving conventionally administered analgesia in a study on patients with advanced cancer. Whereas in comparison to conventional treatment alone, the targeted implantable drug delivery system alone or in combination therapy exhibited some advantages or similar effects in reducing chronic pain during a 1-year follow-up in patients with chronic non-cancer pain. Implantable drug delivery systems are a promising new treatment option for chronic pain treatment. All forms of pain, including those that are still challenging to treat with traditional methods, can now be targeted with devices and treatments.
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