OBJECTIVES: Main objective is the analysis of chronic pain patients' satisfaction with transdermal analgesic medication and related quality of life. Satisfaction with the application form is one aspect of patient satisfaction that is not often examined. This study compares patient satisfaction and quality of life with a buprenorphine transdermal system (Transtec(r)) vs oral medication/tablet (different substances). METHODS: Chronic pain patients were documented in a post marketing surveillance. Of these160, mainly out-patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain, were asked to participate in this investigation additionally. They completed a battery with quality of life scales (e.g. SF 36) and an additional, validated questionnaire about patient satisfaction with the analgesic medication. Questionnaires were administered at two measuring points: when still using tablets and 4-8 weeks later, after the change to the transdermal system (patch). RESULTS: Quality of Life (e.g. SF 36) was generally very low among the sample. Especially physical functioning and vitality were impaired by chronic disease and chronic pain. The results of the patient satisfaction questionnaire indicate, that patients were more satisfied with transdermal analgesic medication than with tablets, especially if they profit from higher mobility/autonomy, e.g. by being able to work again. Overall satisfaction with the buprenorphine transdermal system was not only influenced by perceived impairment by pain and effectiveness of the analgesic but also by mobility/autonomy, satisfaction with quality of life and the doctor-patient-relationship. CONCLUSIONS: Patient Satisfaction with transdermal analgesic medication is more than Quality of Life and pain relief. Although all three aspects influence each other, it's worth exploring them separately.