Study Shows Prior Use of Pain Relievers a Factor in Post-Operative Opioid Use

Factors other than pain may increase the risk of long-term use of strong pain-relieving drugs after surgery, according to a study in the September issue of the International Anesthesia Research Society's Anesthesia & Analgesia.

The study reported that previous use of pain medications, high perceived risk of addiction and symptoms of depression can increase patient risk more than post-surgical pain.

Researchers studied patients undergoing various types of surgery. They found five months after surgery 6 percent of patients still had prescriptions for opioid drugs. Patients who took opioids for pain before surgery were 73 percent more likely to still be using these medications at follow-up.

Long-term opioid use was also connected with patients who rated themselves as being at increased risk of becoming addicted.

More Articles on Anesthesia:
Dr. Kenneth Sauve Joins Rutherford Regional Medical Center as Anesthesiologist
Sleep Apnea Diagnostic and Portable Anesthesia Systems Deemed Fastest Growing Markets
Anesthesia Business Consultants Releases Software for EHR Meaningful Use









Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.

 

Featured Whitepapers

Featured Webinars