The Complexities in the Management of Chronic Pain with Co-Morbid Opiate Use Disorder: A Concise Review of Current Literature - Abstract
Chronic Pain and Opioid Use Disorder are both often causes of significant decrements to social and occupational function, especially when found co-morbidly. Funding for and interest in research for both disorders are currently robust given the large numbers of opiate related deaths that continue to rise in the United States. A concise review of the literature within the last three years shows that use of buprenorphine in treatment of these conditions remains low despite its efficacy as an analgesic, as an FDA approved medication for treatment of OUD, and specific properties in assisting the reduction of opiate induced hyperalgesia. Current barriers include lack of waivered prescribers, lack of accessibility and support in rural communities for prescribers, and lack of specialty trained addiction physicians to provide mentoring and education in many underserved communities.