Combating the Prescription Opioid Abuse Epidemic
Over the past two decades, as the prevalence of chronic pain and health care costs have exploded,
an opioid epidemic with adverse consequences has escalated. Efforts to increase opioid use and
a campaign touting the alleged under-treatment of pain continue to be significant factors in the
escalation. Many arguments in favour of opioids are based solely on traditions, expert opinion,
practical experience and uncontrolled anecdotal observations. Opioids should only be used when
benefits are expected to outweigh risks. Ensuring that patients have access to safe, effective
treatment is critical and involves improving the way opioids are prescribed.
Modern Medicine ā November 2017
