Abstract
We review the known physiological mechanisms underpinning all of pain processing, sleep regulation, and pharmacology of analgesics prescribed for chronic pain. In particular, we describe how commonly prescribed analgesics act in sleep-wake neural pathways, with potential unintended impact on sleep and/or wake function. Sleep disruption, whether pain- or drug-induced, negatively impacts quality of life, mental and physical health. In the context of chronic pain, poor sleep quality heightens pain sensitivity and may affect analgesic function, potentially resulting in further analgesic need. Clinicians already have to consider factors including efficacy, abuse potential, and likely side effects when making analgesic prescribing choices. We propose that analgesic-related sleep disruption should also be considered. The neurochemical mechanisms underlying the reciprocal relationship between pain and sleep are poorly understood, and studies investigating sleep in those with specific chronic pain conditions (including those with comorbidities) are lacking. We emphasize the importance of further work to clarify the effects (intended and unintended) of each analgesic class to inform personalized treatment decisions in patients with chronic pain. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1-31, 2021.
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