The ideal analgesic treatment for acute renal colic--theory and practice.

Objective. With an annual incidence of 0.1–0.4%, renal colic is certainly a frequent disorder. Thanks to recent findings, the approach to treatment is changing. This prompted us to conduct a survey amongst all urologists in Switzerland regarding the analgesic measures they use in patients suffering from acute renal colic. Material and methods. In March 2005, we sent a total of 170 questionnaires to all practising urologists who are also members of the Swiss Urology Society. The questions covered the types of drugs used for first- and second-line analgesic therapy in acute renal colic and the approach to acute and follow-up analgesic therapy. Dosage adjustments in patients with renal failure were also included. The responses were compared with recent literature findings and international guidelines. Results. The response rate was 58%. Non-opioid analgesics are used for first-line therapy by 81% of respondents, with metamizol being used in 64% of cases. First-line therapy is given intravenously in 65% of ca...