New research published in the journal PAIN suggests that approximately 20 to 30 percent of opioids prescribed for chronic pain are misused. Additionally, the current rate of opioids addiction hovers around 10 percent.

“On average, misuse was documented in approximately one out of four or five patients and addiction in approximately one out of ten or eleven patients,” who were prescribed pain pills as part of their treatment for chronic pain, said Dr. Kevin E. Vowles and colleagues. They added that the new findings provide “updated and expanded” estimates of the opioid problem in America.

Increased Prescriptions, Increased Addictions

To see how increased opioid prescriptions have fueled pain pill addictions, researchers analyzed 38 reports to measure three separate opioid-related problems:

• Misuse
• Abuse
• Addiction

Researchers examined documented cases of dependence, withdrawal and overdose to come to their conclusion. Opioid misuse was classified as “using opioids contrary to instructions, regardless of harmful or adverse effects.” After adjusting for variables, researchers concluded that between 21 and 29 percent of people who are prescribed opioids misuse them.

“If it is accurate that approximately one in four patients on opioids display patterns of opioid misuse, but not addiction, then perhaps more efficient targeting of treatment resources would be of benefit,” said Dr. Vowles.

As for opioid abuse, which is classified as continued opioid use with actual or potential harmful effects, researchers suggested that about 8 to 12 percent of patients abuse their medications.

Dr. Vowles and colleagues concluded by saying that physicians should seriously evaluate if a patient is a good candidate for an opioid prescription, as the dangers seem to be outweighing the benefits.

“We are not certain that the benefits derived from opioids, which are rather unclear…compensate for this additional burden to patients and health-care systems.”

Related source: Medical News Today