[Opioid dependence : coordinated care between physicians and pharmacists]

Opioid analgesics are effective for pain management but carry risks of dependence and misuse. Their appropriate use requires close collaboration between primary care physicians and community pharmacists. International experience suggests that such coordi nation can improve patient education, treatment monitoring and the detection of inappropriate use. The DépendAntalgie pilot project illustrates this approach in Frenchspeaking Switzerland through a pharmacybased prevention campaign and collaboration circles involving professionals caring for shared patients. Its initial findings highlight the value of coordinated care, as well as the challenges of recruiting professionals and sustaining local networks.