A recent history of opioid use in the US: Three decades of change. (28th January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dayer, Lindsey E.; Painter, Jacob T.; McCain, Kelsey; King, Jarrod; Cullen, Julia; Foster, Howell R.
• Is Part Of: Substance use & misuse. Volume 54:Number 2(2019)
• Page Start: 331
• Page End: 339
• Publication Date: 2019-01-28
• Subjects: Opioid -- addiction -- history -- substance abuse -- opioid policy -- opioid use disorder -- substance use disorder; Narcotic habit -- Periodicals; Alcoholism -- Periodicals; Substance abuse -- Periodicals; Behavior, Addictive -- Periodicals; Sustance-Related Disorders -- Periodicals; 362.2905
• DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2018.1517175
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1082-6084

Abstract

Abstract: Background : The opioid epidemic in the United States is a problem that has developed over decades. While clinical, regulatory, and legislative changes have been implemented to combat this issue, changes will not be immediate. Moreover, the changes that have been carried out may have unintended negative consequences such as increased use of illicit opioids (e.g., heroin and synthetics) and challenges in effective and appropriate pain management. Objectives : This review focuses on the last three decades and presents key changes the United States has seen in the use of opioids. Conclusions / Importance : There have been numerous policy changes and programs aimed at decreasing opioid use and abuse in the United States; however, it will take a major shift in the mindset of clinicians, the general public, and policy makers to alleviate this epidemic.