Pain Management with Opioids and Controlled Substances: Potential Misuse and Alternative Treatment Options

Course overview

Prescription opioids are used to treat moderate to severe pain. Individuals taking opioids over a long period of time can also develop cravings. Although most people who take opioids long-term do not develop a substance use disorder, a small percentage of people experience a continuing, compulsive need for opioids, which is characteristic of an opioid use disorder. There is a wide range of clinical practice guidelines for treating pain. Nonpharmacologic therapy and nonopioid medications are preferred for the initial treatment of chronic pain. Opioids as first-line or routine therapy for chronic pain should only be considered when the benefits outweigh the risks.