WSAVA launches GLOBAL PAIN MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES

Updated recommendations and resources to support veterinary teams now available

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An updated set of Global Guidelines for the Recognition, assessment and Treatment of Pain, which incorporate advances in knowledge and novel evidence, have been launched by the World small animal Veterinary association (WsaVa) Global Pain council (GPc) during its annual World congress in Lima, Peru. WsaVa association member representatives gave enthusiastic support to the new guidelines, with many signing up to support the GPc’s pledge to improve pain management in companion animals.

Following peer-review, the new guidelines have been published by the Journal of small Animal Practice (JSAP), the WSAVA’s official scientific journal, and are available for free download from the WsaVa Website and from the JsaP website.

A key feature of the guidelines is an emphasis on the use of pain scales for the assessment of acute and chronic pain in companion animals. They provide guidance, for instance, on selecting the most effective pain assessment tool based on the condition of the patient and scientific evidence, with links to relevant tools also provided.

In terms of pain management, the guidelines take into account novel evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of both drug and non-drug therapies. For example, they evaluate the performance of new pharmaceuticals, including monoclonal antibodies, or those with new delivery systems, and evidence regarding the use of cannabinoids for chronic pain. They also discuss the use of non-drug therapies, including acupuncture – evidence of efficacy of which has increased in certain pain conditions. The Guidelines also stress that euthanasia should always be considered in cases where pain cannot be effectively managed and quality of life is poor.