Outcomes Associated with Opioid Use in the Treatment of Chronic Noncancer Pain in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This systematic review summarizes existing evidence regarding the efficacy, safety, and abuse and misuse potential of opioids as treatment for chronic noncancer pain in older adults. Multiple databases were searched to identify relevant studies published in English (1/1/80–7/1/09) with a mean study population age of 60 and older. Forty‐three articles were identified and retained for review (40 reported safety and efficacy data, the remaining 3 reported misuse or abuse outcome data). The weighted mean subject age was 64.1 (mean age range 60–73). Studies enrolled patients with osteoarthritis (70%), neuropathic pain (13%), and other pain‐producing disorders (17%). The mean duration of treatment studies was 4 weeks (range 1.5−156 weeks), and only five (12%) lasted longer than 12 weeks. In meta‐analyses, effect sizes were −0.557 (P