Controlled release oxycodone is available for the treatment of chronic pain in Germany since 1998. Controlled trials have shown efficacy and tolerability comparable to oral morphine. This survey reports results from an open prospective multicenter trial in Germany. One hundred twenty three patients (18 cancer, 105 non-cancer related pain) with inadequate pain relief were titrated with oral controlled release oxycodone for one to three weeks and surveyed for two weeks maintenance phase. Mean dosage increased from initially 55 mg to 94 mg at the end of the respective titration period and 106 mg per day after study end. Side effects such as sedation, nausea and vomiting increased during titration, but were reduced again in the maintenance phase. Constipation showed no tolerance, but was reported more frequently throughout the study. The efficacy of oxycodone was rated better than moderate by 70% of the patients. The titration regimen used in this trial can be recommended for the initiation of controlled release oxycodone in specialised and non-specialised settings.