Prescription pain medications have been shown to be effective for pain relief. However, a number of adverse events have been established. While pain reduction is an important outcome measure for patients, they also highly value improved function and quality of life. The addition of prescription pain medications does not always improve functional outcomes, or even pain. There is also a significant risk of long-term addiction. It is imperative that providers work with patients to establish treatment goals, regularly reassess pain and function, and taper or discontinue medications as able or if patients experience harm.

Conditions: Pain, addiction

Treatments: Pain medications

Sources

• Chapman JR, Norvell DC, Hermsmeyer JT, et al. Evaluating common outcomes for measuring treatment success for chronic low back pain. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2011 Oct 1;36(21 Suppl):S54-68. (PubMed)
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