Baaklini, L.G., Arruda, G.V., & Sakata, R.K. (2017). Assessment of the analgesic effect of magnesium and morphine in combination in patients with cancer pain: A comparative randomized double-blind study. American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, 34, 353–357.
To establish whether the analgesic effect of morphine improves in patients with cancer when administered in combination with magnesium
Patients with moderate or severe cancer pain and starting morphine were randomized to 656.6 mg sulfate BID or placebo.
PHASE OF CARE: Not specified
Prospective, randomized, double-blind trial
Pain intensity measured on 0 to 10 scale at baseline and weeks 1, 2, 3, and 4. Functional performance as assessed by Karnofsky and QOL assessed by the EORTC at first and last interview. Dose of morphine and side effects were recorded.
No difference in participant characteristic, pain intensity, morphine dose, functional performance, or QOL. Pain intensity was significantly reduced in both groups. No difference was found in the side effects of morphine except for constipation in week 1.
Morphine combined with magnesium did not lead to better analgesic effects, QOL, or functional performance.
The use of morphine and magnesium did not induce a better analgesic effect or improve functional status or QOL.