Beyond IV push: alternative methods for management of acute pain in SCD

Abstract

Acute pain in sickle cell disease (SCD) involves multiple, complex downstream effects of vaso-occlusion, ischemia, and inflammation, ultimately resulting in severe and sudden pain. Historically, opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been the cornerstone of treatment for acute SCD pain. However, given the evolving understanding of the complexity of pain pathways in SCD and the desire to avoid NSAID and opioid-induced side effects, a multimodal approach is needed to effectively treat acute SCD pain. In this article we review recent research supporting the utilization of nonopioid pharmacologic interventions and nonpharmacologic interventions while also describing the research questions that remain surrounding their use and efficacy and effectiveness in the management of acute SCD pain. Furthermore, we review care delivery processes shown to improve acute SCD pain outcomes and highlight areas where more work is needed. Through this comprehensive approach, alternative mechanistic pathways may be addressed, leading to improved SCD pain outcomes.