Parents think opioids are best at relieving children's pain, despite risks – The Siasat Daily

Washington: Parents are still in conflict over opioids. A poll, commissioned by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), reveals that more than half of those polled fear that their child is at risk of opioid addiction, but nearly two-thirds think that opioids are more effective for managing their child's pain after surgery or fracture. bones as non-prescription drugs or other alternatives.

Linda J. Mason, President of the ASA, said about the survey: "The results of the survey provided a better understanding of the country's conflictual relations with opioids and their understanding. Although most parents expressed concern about side effects and risks such as addiction, overuse or recreational use and overdoses, they always thought that opioids were the best way to manage pain.

Mason added that opioids may not always be the best option. It really depends on the type of surgery and the duration of their surgery. It is important, however, that parents be aware that there are many safe and effective alternatives to pain management. But only about one-third of parents whose opioids were prescribed to their children even asked their doctor about pain management alternatives.
Although the use of short-term opioids can be effective when it is managed safely and the risks are minimized, more than 2 million Americans abuse it and over 90 people die every day from an opioid overdose.

The new survey of more than 1,000 parents of children aged 13 to 24, one-third of whom were prescribed opioids, found that while 83% of parents say they are ready to safely manage opioid consumption of their child, if any. not quite endure.

The findings suggest that there is a need to improve awareness on: alternatives to opioids; safe storage and proper disposal; talk to children about the risks; and the benefits of naloxone, an emergency medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose.

-Parents do not ask for effective alternatives

Although opioids may help relieve pain for a few days after surgery or injury, there are effective alternatives that do not have the side effects and risks badociated with opioids, including non-opioid medications and non-drug therapies. But the survey results suggest that parents often do not ask for alternatives, or are unaware of the range of options.

In addition to medications, a number of non-drug therapies can help relieve persistent pain, including nerve blocks, physical therapy, biofeedback, meditation, virtual reality, mbadage and acupuncture.

-Parents are not aware that safe storage and proper disposal are essential

More than half of people who abuse prescribed opioids get them from a friend or family member. That is why it is important that drugs are stored safely and that medications are properly disposed of to reduce the epidemic. The results of the survey suggest, however, that parents do not fully understand the benefits and appropriate methods of safe storage and disposal.

-Parents understand the importance of communication

When an opioid is prescribed to a child, parents should have an open and honest discussion about the side effects and potential risks – not only with the child taking the medication, but also with other members of the family. family. The parents interviewed generally understood this.

– Parents recognize that naloxone saves lives

Naloxone (Narcan®) is a life-saving medication, administered by nasal spray or by injection, which quickly reverses the effects of an overdose. It is important to know about naloxone, because anyone who uses opioids – even if they have been prescribed by a doctor – may be at risk of overdose.

The availability of naloxone varies by state. In most states, it is available by prescription and some pharmacies sell it over the counter. Most parents recognize the value of naloxone.

Speaking about the survey, Dr. Mason added, "It is critical to recognize and correct knowledge gaps about opioids, ensuring that everyone understands how to use them and in any way safety and minimize their risks. An anesthesiologist or other pain management specialist can help parents reduce their child's pain and reduce the risk of opioid misuse and addiction. "

Source: ANI