What is the WHO analgesic ladder for pain management?

The World Health Organization analgesic ladder is a stepwise approach to pain management with three levels. Step one uses non-opioid analgesics like acetaminophen and NSAIDs for mild pain. Step two adds weak opioids like codeine or tramadol for moderate pain not controlled by non-opioids alone. Step three uses strong opioids like morphine, oxycodone, or fentanyl for severe pain. Adjuvant medications like anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and corticosteroids can be added at any step. ---