May 2011

August 22, 2011

A brief look at interesting and noteworthy studies and articles addressing various issues in the diagnosis and management of pain in children.

August 22, 2011

Although a recent study found naltrexone compared favorably to placebo in treating patients for opioid dependence, critics have questioned the results.

August 22, 2011

Identifying symptoms of painful conditions may be more difficult with elderly patients, particularly those who are suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's.

August 22, 2011

If enacted, this far-reaching Senate bill would establish mandatory opioid prescribing training for physicians and create comprehensive opioid treatment guidelines.

August 22, 2011

Systematic literature review confirms that a range of opioid formulations and delivery methods are safe and effective treatment option for cancer pain.

August 22, 2011

Long-delayed PDMP may soon help state efforts to fight abuse, misuse, and diversion of prescription pain medications and other drugs.

August 22, 2011

A recently released study showing that many patients are not aware of the type or quantity of active ingredient in their over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications has resulted in increased scrutiny on medication safety issues and the proper use of OTC pain relievers, especially NSAIDs and drugs containing acetaminophen.

August 22, 2011

Prior to an FDA ban on unapproved colchicine products, the drugs cost roughly $0.10 a pill. Now, there is only one FDA-approved colchicine product, and it costs $5 a pill.

August 22, 2011

Black patients treated with opioids for pain are more likely to be required to attend regular office visits and receive restricted early refills than white patients.

August 22, 2011

That physician and patient fears regarding the risks and dangers of opioids are overblown, particularly when it comes to addiction and dependence, has been much discussed. Yet, despite the consensus that properly selected and administered opioids are a safe and effective pain management option in both the cancer and noncancer settings, we still seem to be having the same conversations about the need for more education, training, and outreach designed to improve physicians' knowledge and awareness of effective opioid prescribing practices.

August 13, 2011

In the real world, no two fibromyalgia patients are the same. So why did the old diagnostic criteria treat them as if they were?

August 13, 2011

Physicians need a reliable tool that allows them to monitor treatment compliance and determine if patients are diverting meds or using illicit drugs.