The analgesic used for "patient-controlled analgesia" (PCA) in the treatment of post-operative pain is typically an opioid medication. These medications are delivered through a PCA pump that allows the patient to self-administer doses within specified limits to manage their pain effectively.
Common opioids used in PCA include:
1. Morphine
2. Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
3. Fentanyl
4. Oxycodone
The choice of the specific opioid and its dosing is determined by the healthcare provider based on the patient's needs, the type of surgery, and other factors. The PCA system allows patients to control their pain relief by pressing a button to administer a pre-set dose of the medication, providing better pain management and reducing the need for repeated injections.