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Treatment of Pain in Pediatric Patients

Departement of Pharmacy Services, University of Michigan Health System, College of Pharmacy at the University of Michigan, pcwalker{at}umich.edu

Deborah S. Wagner, PharmD

College of Pharmacy and Medical School, University of Michigan and Clinical Pharmacist, Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Michigan Health System

A growing body of evidence demonstrates that untreated pain is associated with adverse consequences that can compromise clinical and developmental outcomes in children but that these adverse consequences can be prevented or attenuated by appropriate analgesic therapy. Thus, effective treatment of acute pain must be a clinical priority for children of all ages. Over the past 20 years, extensive pediatric research exploring pain assessment, developmental pharmacology of analgesics, and the clinical use of analgesics has dispelled many myths and misconceptions about pain management in pediatric patients; proven that analgesics can be used safely in neonates, infants, and children; and provided a framework for the development of pediatric pain management guidelines. This article reviews guidelines recommended for managing acute pain in pediatric patients and the treatment options for children experiencing acute pain. Contemporary issues regarding acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, and opioids are discussed.

Key Words: Pain management guidelines • pediatrics • analgesics • opioids • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents.

Journal of Pharmacy Practice, Vol. 16, No. 4, 261-275 (2003)
DOI: 10.1177/0897190003258505


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