The Utility of Low-Dose Methadone for Pain among Vulnerable Nursing Home Residents

Pain is a prevalent issue in nursing homes, and opioids are usually indicated after other nonopioid modalities fail. Because the pain is often persistent, and the resident would not ask for enough analgesics because of various reasons, including cognitive impairment, it is generally indicated to administer opioids around the clock.1 Thus, long-acting opioids are useful in that regard. However, there is a notable limitation in effective and safe long-acting formulation for nursing home residents.