RESUMO
Background: The incidence rates of heart failure (HF) and chronic pain increase with age. In the geriatric population, both disorders often coexist and pose a challenge to clinicians in treating them simultaneously. Methods: We conducted an online literature search for reports of the heart failure effects of pharmacological treatments for chronic pain. Results: Topical pain medications are favored agents because of their efficacy, tolerability, and favorable side-effect profile. Acetaminophen is a preferred oral medication for the treatment of pain in patients with HF. Due to deleterious effects including HF, the long-term use of oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and gabapentinoids are discouraged. Conclusion: Prescribers should thoroughly consider the risk-benefit ratio and individual patient-risk profile before instituting pharmacological treatment for chronic pain in patients with HF.