Unintended Consequences of the Opioid Crisis on Pain Patients

 

Unintended Consequences of the Opioid Crisis on Pain Patients

The opioid crisis has affected millions of Americans who struggle with addiction and overdose. While the legal actions against Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin, have exposed its deceptive marketing practices, the crisis also involves other factors. These include the overprescribing of opioids by doctors and the challenges faced by pain patients who rely on them.

According to the US Pain Foundation, about 51 million Americans live with chronic pain that interferes with their daily activities. For these people, pain management is essential for their quality of life. Pain management can involve various approaches, such as medications, physical therapies, psychological therapies (such as cognitive behavioral therapy), relaxation techniques and meditation, mind and body techniques, and community support groups.

However, despite these alternatives, there is still a demand for new and better pain medications. Orphangesic Forte and Olinvyk are two examples of recently approved drugs that aim to provide effective pain relief.

Sadly, the opioid crisis has also harmed pain patients in unintended ways. Pain management providers have become more cautious and skeptical of pain complaints and may label them as “drug seeking behavior.” This can make it harder for legitimate pain patients to access the care they need.

More research and innovation are needed to address this problem. Pain patients deserve to have safe and effective pain management options that do not expose them to addiction or other adverse effects.

Chronic pain patients and their families can find more information and support from the: U.S. Pain Foundation 

-Unlikely Buddha 2023