OIH

Medical abbreviation · Pharmacology

OIH
Stands forOpioid-induced hyperalgesia
CategoriesMedical

OIH stands for Opioid-induced hyperalgesia, a pharmacology abbreviation.

Paradoxical increase in pain sensitivity caused by opioid exposure, so that pain becomes more widespread or severe despite rising doses. It differs from tolerance, in which higher doses restore relief.

Example: Suspect OIH: pain spreading despite escalating hydromorphone; begin taper and add ketamine.

Usage notes

Diagnosis is clinical and can be difficult because worsening disease or tolerance looks similar. Management includes reducing the opioid dose, rotating to another opioid such as methadone or buprenorphine, and adding NMDA antagonists like ketamine. Recognition of OIH has contributed to more cautious long-term opioid prescribing.

More pharmacology abbreviations

  • INN – International Nonproprietary Name
  • LD50 – Median lethal dose
  • MOA – Mechanism of action
  • MTD – Maximum tolerated dose
  • NTI – Narrow therapeutic index
  • OIC – Opioid-induced constipation
  • P-gp – P-glycoprotein
  • PD – Pharmacodynamics
  • PGx – Pharmacogenomics
  • PIM – Potentially inappropriate medication
  • PK – Pharmacokinetics
  • SAE – Serious adverse event

See all 36 pharmacology abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.