Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2025

Assessment of Morphine-induced Hyperalgesia and Analgesic Tolerance in Mice Using Thermal and Mechanical Nociceptive Modalities
Published on: July 29, 2014
Public Perceptions of Opioid Use for Chronic Non-Cancer Pain
Marvin A Solberg1,2, Emily Pasman3, Sydney O'Shay4
1College of Nursing, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Public attitudes on prescription opioids for chronic pain are shaped by personal experiences with opioid misuse and stigma. Many believe doctors overprescribe, advocating for transitions to alternative pain management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Public health
- Pain management
- Sociology
Background:
- Chronic non-cancer pain impacts 20% of Americans.
- The opioid crisis and reduced dispensing influence pain management.
- Public perceptions significantly shape pain treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore public attitudes toward prescription opioids for chronic non-cancer pain.
- To understand how public views are affected by the opioid crisis and changing opioid use.
- To identify factors influencing beliefs about opioid prescribing duration and alternative treatments.
Main Methods:
- A Qualtrics survey was administered to 823 adults in Michigan.
- Attitudes toward medical and nonmedical prescription opioid use were assessed.
- Multivariable logistic regression identified factors associated with specific beliefs.
Main Results:
- 49.4% believed doctors prescribe opioids for too long; 65.7% agreed patients should transition to alternatives.
- Opioid misuse experience and substance use perceptions correlated with beliefs of overprescribing.
- Demographics, substance use history, and perceptions influenced beliefs about tapering off medication.
Conclusions:
- Findings highlight the need to address public misperceptions about prescription opioids.
- Personal experience, perceived risks, and stigma are key factors influencing public attitudes.
- Insights can guide improved pain management strategies for chronic non-cancer pain patients.
Related Concept Videos
Analgesia and Pain Management
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners
Opioid Receptors: Overview
Nociception
Prescription, Nonprescription and Orphan Drugs
The misuse and addiction to prescription drugs is a growing problem that can affect people of all age groups, specifically teenagers. This can happen when prescription medications are used in ways not intended by the prescriber, such as taking someone else's prescription or using medication for...

