Norman Miller
Central Michigan University, USA
Title: Do Current Policy and Practices for Prescribing Opioid Medications Solve Chronic Pain Problems
Biography
Biography: Norman Miller
Abstract
Despite the widespread prescribing of opioid medications for the treatment of chronic pain there is little or no evidence for its efficacy. In fact, the studies show that long-term prescribing of opioid medications leads to significant morbidity and mortality. The Controlled Substance Laws define prescription opioid medication as dangerous and addicting medications. Despite the classification and scheduling of opioid medication, their prescribing continues to be widespread and adverse. Of central importance is there are few studies of the addicting properties that drive the high rates of prescribing and adverse consequences. It is a myth that most people treated with opioids never become addicted and addiction does not develop if you are prescribing for pain.