Prolonged continuous epidural methadone analgesia in the treatment of back and pelvic pain due to multiple myeloma

Two patients suffering from severe thoraco-lumbar and pelvic pain caused by collapsed vertebrae and diffuse osteopoenia due to multiple myeloma are presented. The pain was alleviated by the continuous epidural administration of methadone. The dosage used was 4 mg of methadone 0.1 per cent repeated 2-3 times daily for a period of over 1 month without any major adverse effects. No additional pain medication was required. Prolonged continuous epidural methadone analgesia resulted in excellent pain relief and early ambulation.