What is the priority goal when titrating an analgesic to manage pain?

Administer smallest dose that provides relief with the fewest side effects.

The goal is to control pain while minimizing side effects. For severe pain. the medication can be titrated upward until pain is controlled. Downward titration occurs when the pain begins to subside. Adequate dosing is important; however. the concept of controlled dosing applies more to potent vasoactive drugs.