You’re Far Less Likely to Get an Opioid Now After Surgery
Recent Research Shows U.S. Doctors Have Decreased Post-Surgery Opioid Prescriptions by Two-Thirds Since 2016 Due to Ongoing Misuse Crisis
Receiving opioids post-surgery is now much less probable.
In response to the ongoing crisis of opioid misuse, U.S. doctors had already cut the amount of opioids they gave patients after surgery by 2022 to just a third of the amount given in 2016, new research shows. But hold on, this isn’t just any decline; it’s a decline that would make Usain Bolt proud. 🏃♂️💨
Much of the decline happened before the pandemic, however, and the rate at which doctors are reducing the use of post-op opioids has slowed. It’s like they hit a speed bump on the road to progress. However, we’re not here to dwell on the negatives. Let’s focus on the positive strides that have been made so far on this journey. 🌈✨
The use of opioids during surgery recovery is a well-known gateway to opioid addiction. It’s like being given a backstage pass to a rock concert – one minute you’re enjoying the music, and the next minute you’re trying to crowd-surf your way out of a dangerous addiction. 🎸🙅♀️
“The goal should be to ensure that opioids are only prescribed when necessary, and that the amount of opioids prescribed matches the amount that patients need,” study lead author Jason Zhang said. “Achieving these goals could help reduce the risk of opioid misuse, persistent opioid use, and diversion of pills to other people besides the patient,” added Zhang, who worked on the study while a research assistant at the University of Michigan. He’s now a med student at Northwestern University in Chicago. 🎓🔬
So, just how much progress have we made? Well, a new study published in JAMA Network Open found that surgery-linked opioid prescriptions fell by 36% between 2016 and 2022, and the average amount of opioids included in those prescriptions also fell by 46%. In other words, the overall amount of opioids prescribed to Americans after their surgeries decreased by a stunning 66%. That’s a significant drop! 📉😲
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However, the bulk of this decline occurred early on, between 2016 and 2019. It’s like the doctors started off sprinting at record-breaking speeds, but then they hit a wall. Maybe they need a little encouragement to get back on track. 🏋️♀️👩⚕️
Efforts to right-size opioid prescriptions after surgery must continue, emphasized study senior author Dr. Kao-Ping Chua, an assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Michigan. We can’t let the progress we’ve made go to waste. We need to keep pushing forward until we reach the finish line. 🏁💪
Now, let’s take a closer look at the study’s findings. The researchers discovered that certain types of surgeons were cutting back on opioid prescribing more than others. Heart and eye surgeons made especially tough cutbacks on dispensing post-op opioids. They’re like the superheroes of the medical world, swooping in to save the day and spare patients from the clutches of addiction. 🦸♀️🦸♂️
However, rates of opioid prescribing remained relatively high among orthopedic surgeons. Half of the opioids still given to patients after surgery are related to orthopedic surgeries. It’s like they’re holding on to their prescription pads for dear life – they just can’t seem to let go. 💊🤷♂️
Besides the risks of addiction posed to patients, having unnecessary opioids at home could raise the odds of drug abuse by others in the household. Opioids can also interact dangerously with alcohol or other drugs. So, it’s not just about the patient’s well-being, it’s about the greater community as well. We’re all in this together. 🏠🌍
Now, let’s address some burning questions that you, the readers, might have on this topic:
Q: How can I effectively manage pain after surgery without relying on opioids?
A: There are various alternative pain management strategies that can be used post-surgery. These include non-opioid medications such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as well as non-pharmacological approaches like physical therapy, acupuncture, and relaxation techniques. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your unique situation. 💊🚫
Q: Are there any risks or side effects associated with using opioids for pain management after surgery?
A: Yes, there are risks involved. Opioids can lead to addiction, which is a serious concern. Additionally, they can cause side effects such as drowsiness, constipation, nausea, and respiratory depression. It’s important to weigh the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider and explore other options for pain management whenever possible. Safety first, folks! ⚠️😷
Q: Why do orthopedic surgeons still prescribe opioids at relatively high rates?
A: Excellent question! Orthopedic surgeries often involve significant pain and longer recovery periods, which may lead to a greater reliance on opioids for pain management. Furthermore, there may be variations in prescribing practices among different surgeons and healthcare facilities. It’s an area where further research and education are needed to ensure appropriate pain management strategies are employed. 🤔🔍
Alright, folks, there you have it – a closer look at the decline in opioid prescriptions after surgery and the ongoing efforts to combat opioid misuse. Remember, progress takes time, but every step forward is a step in the right direction. Together, we can create a future where patients receive the pain management they need without falling into the grips of addiction. 🌟💙
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