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23/05/2012
Health Watchdog Publish New Pain Medication Guidelines
New guidelines published by health watchdog, NICE, say that many patients with advanced cancer and other debilitating conditions are being "under-treated" for their pain.
The National Institute for Clinical Excellence wants doctors in England and Wales to make more use of morphine and other strong opioids - the only adequate pain relief source for many patients.
Alongside this the guidelines recommend doctors discuss patients' concerns, which may include addiction, tolerance, side-effects and fears that treatment implies the final stage of life.
The guidance deals with five opioids: morphine, diamorphine (heroin), buprenorphine, fentanyl and oxycodone. They come either from the opium poppy or are synthetically produced versions.
NICE have said that "misinterpretations and misunderstanding" have surrounded the use of strong opioids for decades, which has resulted in errors "causing under-dosing and avoidable pain, or overdosing and distressing adverse effects".
Dr Damien Longson, Chair of the NICE Guideline Development Group said: "People worry they can become addicted, particularly if opioids are prescribed over an extended period of time. This guideline puts a strong emphasis on good communication between healthcare professionals and patients, which is key to ensuring any worries or uncertainties are addressed with timely and accurate information."
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The National Institute for Clinical Excellence wants doctors in England and Wales to make more use of morphine and other strong opioids - the only adequate pain relief source for many patients.
Alongside this the guidelines recommend doctors discuss patients' concerns, which may include addiction, tolerance, side-effects and fears that treatment implies the final stage of life.
The guidance deals with five opioids: morphine, diamorphine (heroin), buprenorphine, fentanyl and oxycodone. They come either from the opium poppy or are synthetically produced versions.
NICE have said that "misinterpretations and misunderstanding" have surrounded the use of strong opioids for decades, which has resulted in errors "causing under-dosing and avoidable pain, or overdosing and distressing adverse effects".
Dr Damien Longson, Chair of the NICE Guideline Development Group said: "People worry they can become addicted, particularly if opioids are prescribed over an extended period of time. This guideline puts a strong emphasis on good communication between healthcare professionals and patients, which is key to ensuring any worries or uncertainties are addressed with timely and accurate information."
(H)
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