Chronic Pain: Decreasing Dependence on Opioids

Luzim, Derek

Item

Chronic Pain: Decreasing Dependence on Opioids

Luzim, Derek

License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Abstract

An estimated 100 million Americans suffer from chronic pain. A substantial number of them have been prescribed opioid medication for pain management. Evidence has accumulated that opioid medication is inefective for long-term pain control, and that it is associated with increased risk of overdose and accidents, diversion, dependence and misuse. Doctors are increasingly attempting to reduce levels of opioid use in their patients, and some patients with chronic pain are reluctant to decrease their use. This project aimed to provide information to both doctors and patients about this issue.