The investigator can search for a method which uses fewer animals, where mortality is not the endpoint, or techniques that minimize pain or distress. Even environmental enrichment can be considered an alternative. The legislation specifically mentions alternatives to the painful procedure. The painful procedure must be examined in the context of the entire study. This information is often buried within the paper.
Databases generally keyword search for words or phrases in the title, abstract, or descriptor.
The painful procedures are sometimes, but not often, mentioned in those categories. Therefore, a broader view is needed to see if the study's ultimate objectives can be met with alternative methods. Beside the legal aspect, there are many other benefits of the alternatives search. Many researchers run literature searches when designing a study. Such searches can easily be tailored to address alternatives.