Considerations in addressing the opioid epidemic and chronic pain within the USA. (25th February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Marshall, Blaine; Bland, Michelle K; Hulla, Ryan; Gatchel, Robert J
• Is Part Of: Pain management. Volume 9:Number 2(2019)
• Page Start: 131
• Page End: 138
• Publication Date: 2019-02-25
• Subjects: biopsychosocial -- chronic pain -- opioid addiction -- opioid dependence -- opioids; Pain -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.047205
• DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2018-0070
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-1869

Abstract

This article reviews the complexities of the opioid epidemic, considering recent research involving the current state of the opioid epidemic; chronic pain and its role in the crisis; the properties of opioids and how they interact with human neurobiology; the effectiveness and risks of opioids as a treatment for chronic pain; opioid addiction and dependence; and pharmacological and psychological interventions for opioid addiction, opioid dependence, and chronic pain management. Opioid abuse can be reduced with the availability and access to treatment facilities for opioid detoxification; using interdisciplinary treatment models for chronic pain, opioid addiction and dependence; conducting more research in the areas of opioid addiction and opioid dependence; and shifting to an increase in nonpharmacological, less invasive treatments for pain.