Pain Management Without Psychological Dependence

Subject: Pain Management Without Psychological Dependence

All,

Comments from any experts? Note this:

"Physical dependence is often a natural part of the long-term use of opioids prescribed for pain and can be managed effectively with appropriate identification and treatment (Coluzzi and Pappagallo 2005; Heit 2003; Strassels et al. 2005). Distinguishing between physical and psychological dependence on opioids is critical for the well-being of the patient. Physical dependence is a physiological adaptation to a substance, defined by a growing tolerance for its effects and/or withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or ends (American Psychiatric Association 2000). Psychological dependence is a primary, chronic, neurobiological disease, with genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations (Heit 2003). It may occur with or without physical dependence and is conceptually characterized by impaired control over drug use, compulsive use, continued use despite harm, and craving for the psychic effects of the drug (American Academy of Pain Medicine et al. 2001; American Psychiatric Association 2000; Heit 2003; Strassels et al. 2005)."

Don

SAMHSA Releases New Issue of Substance Abuse in Brief Fact Sheet on Pain
Management Without Psychological Dependence

The Substance Abuse and
Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announces the publication of a
new issue of its Substance Abuse in Brief Fact Sheet addressing pain management
without addiction.

Pain Management Without Psychological
Dependence: A Guide for Healthcare Providers (Summer 2006, Volume 4, Issue 1)
provides healthcare providers with research-based information on how to provide
pain management while avoiding psychological dependence on opioids. It discusses
nonopioid alternatives to pain management, distinguishes between physical and
psychological dependence and pseudoaddiction, and provides practical advice on
how to reduce patients’ risk of psychological dependence on opioids during pain
management. NCADI Publication No. MS993.

You can view a copy at:
http://www.kap.samhsa.gov/products/brochures/text/saib_0401.htm

To order your FREE copies of this issue of the Substance Abuse in Brief Fact Sheet,
contact SAMHSA’s National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information
(NCADI).

Phone:

800-729-6686 or
240-221-4017
800-487-4889
(TDD hearing impaired)

877-767-8432 (toll free) Hablamos Español
Web: http://www.ncadi.samhsa.gov