22/01/2026
Should opioid treatments be used in pain care in Singapore?
It’s an important question, especially given what we’ve seen globally. While opioids have a role in specific situations, particularly cancer-related pain, they are rarely the best answer for chronic, non-cancer pain. Over time, they can bring significant side effects and may even make pain harder to manage.
The encouraging part is that pain medicine has moved forward. Today, we have a growing range of non-opioid options that are more targeted, more precise, and safer for long-term care. By focusing on the underlying drivers of pain and combining appropriate interventions with rehabilitation and education, many patients can recover function without relying on strong medications.
Pain relief should never come at the expense of long-term wellbeing.
If you’re navigating ongoing pain and unsure what your options are, reach out to me. A clear, personalised plan can make all the difference.