Br J Cancer 2006 May 16; (Read article online)

Bell RF, Wisløff T, Eccleston C, Kalso E

This qualitative systematic review of the clinical methodology used in randomised, controlled trials of oral opioids (morphine, hydromorphone, oxycodone) for cancer pain underlines the difficulties of good pain research in palliative care. The current literature lacks placebo-controlled superiority trials. Recommendations for future research are discussed.British Journal of Cancer advance online publication, 16 May 2006; doi:10.1038/sj.bjc.6603162 www.bjcancer.com.