The risks associated with long-term opioid therapy are significant and may outweigh any potential benefits [Image: Piret Ilver on Unsplash]
Managed withdrawal from opioids taken for chronic non-cancer pain is associated with significant risk, but can be undertaken in primary care if conditions are appropriate
Fiona Cordin and Linda Bryant
References
1. Busse J, Wang L, Kamaleldin M. Opioids for chronic noncancer pain. A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA 2018;320(23):2448–60.
2. Matua Raki. Substance withdrawal management: Guidelines for medical and nursing practitioners. Wellington, NZ: Matua Raki; 2019. https://tinyurl.com/yet2sndu
3. Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. Hayes C. Reconsidering opioids. YouTube video, 11 Feb 2021 (25min:39s). www.youtube.com/watch?v=opRUtkiaO9c
4. McPherson S, Smith C, Dobscha S, et al. Changes in pain intensity after discontinuation of long-term opioid therapy for chronic noncancer pain. Pain 2018;159(10):2097–104.
5. Hunter New England Health. Brainman stops his opioids. YouTube video, 7 Oct 2014 (1min:45s). www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFOa7Z7MHHk
6. White R, Hayes C, White S, et al. Using social media to challenge unwarranted clinical variation in the treatment of chronic noncancer pain: the “Brainman” story. J Pain Res 2016;9:701–09.
