Intrathecal therapy allows patients to receive pain medication continuously through an infusion system comprised of an infusion pump and catheter that has been inserted into the spine.

Many severe chronic pain patients will receive PRIALT therapy through an internal infusion pump that is surgically implanted in the abdomen. Others may be prescribed an external infusion pump that can be carried outside the body on a belt or shoulder strap.

Flexible dosing to help optimize patient response

PRIALT dosages start low and gradually increase in order to reduce the risk of side effects. This "fine tuning" of PRIALT - known as titration - is designed to find the dose at which a patient receives the most pain relief with the fewest side effects.

During this adjustment period, patients may be prescribed other drugs to help relieve pain, including oral opiates. In addition, the titration process will likely require monthly office visits to:

• Check for side effects
• Discuss changes in any other medications
• Refill the pump, if necessary