The text notes the prevalence of unrelieved pain due to lack of knowledge, the prescription patterns of physicians, the belief that other health care providers or persons in pain that pain is a manifestation of anxiety, and the concern that taking a narcotic to relieve pain is both morally wrong and medically inappropriate. The first section reviews the anatomical, physiological, and psychological aspects of pain, as well as the basic concepts of drug dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal. The second section discusses the pharmacological actions and side effects of individual drugs used to provide or to enhance analgesia. The final section discusses the general principles to be followed in pain management. It also explains ways to treat pain in specific populations, including children, elderly persons, persons with cancer, persons with AIDS, persons tolerant to opioids or dependent on them, and persons with pain of unknown origin. Figures, tables, chapter reference lists, and index