Opioids and central sensitisation: II. Induction and reversal of hyperalgesia

Opioids are powerful analgesics when used to treat acute pain and some forms of chronic pain. In addition, opioids can pre-empt some forms of central sensitization [Sandkühler and Ruscheweyh, Eur. J. Pain, in press, doi:10.1016/j.ejpain.2004.05.012]. Here we review evidence that opioids may also induce and perhaps reverse some forms of central sensitization.