Which opioid is commonly used for chronic pain that is unresponsive to other medications?

Oxycodone is frequently chosen for chronic pain management, particularly in cases where patients have not responded adequately to other pain medications. It is a strong opioid analgesic that can provide effective pain relief, especially for patients with persistent pain conditions that may not be treated sufficiently by non-opioid medications or lighter opioids.

Oxycodone is available in various formulations, including immediate-release and extended-release options, which allow for tailored pain management strategies. This flexibility is significant for managing chronic conditions where pain may fluctuate throughout the day or where a continuous, long-term relief is necessary.

Other opioids like morphine and hydrocodone are also effective pain relievers but may not be as frequently utilized in certain chronic pain scenarios, especially as oxycodone is often favored for its efficacy in this context. Fentanyl, while very potent, is typically used for more severe pain or in specific situations (like in patients with opioid tolerance) rather than as a first-line for chronic pain management in non-tolerant individuals. Thus, oxycodone stands out as a common choice for chronic pain unresponsive to other treatments.