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Chronic pain and opiates: a call for moderation.
1Center for Pain Studies, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. nharden@ric.org
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|March 20, 2008
Summary
Opioid analgesics for chronic pain are controversial. This paper advocates for a balanced approach, carefully weighing risks and benefits for safer patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Pharmacology
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Prescribing opioid analgesics for chronic non-terminal conditions is a highly debated medical issue.
- Historical prescribing patterns have swung between extremes of nihilism and overzealousness.
- Current medical practice seeks a more balanced approach to opioid use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for careful consideration and moderation in the prescription of opioids for chronic pain.
- To encourage a rational appraisal of the risks versus benefits of using opioid analgesics.
- To promote a balanced perspective in managing chronic pain with opioid therapy.
Main Methods:
- This article presents a case for a specific approach to opioid prescribing.
- It involves a review of historical trends and current controversies.
- The focus is on a risk-benefit analysis for chronic pain management.
Main Results:
- The historical pendulum swing in opioid prescribing is highlighted.
- The need for moderation and a balanced risk-benefit assessment is emphasized.
- The article argues against extreme approaches to opioid analgesics.
Conclusions:
- A moderate and balanced approach to prescribing opioid analgesics is essential for chronic pain.
- Thoughtful attention to risk versus benefit is crucial for effective and safe pain management.
- Moving beyond historical extremes towards a rational appraisal is key for optimal patient care.
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