Opiates For Pain Control

A pharmacist friend told me recently that many patients have their lives completely destroyed by severe chronic pain. He felt they could lead relatively normal lives if their pain was well managed. He found that many doctors were afraid to provide adequate pain relief.

Says Dr. Roman Jovey, a pain specialist, in a recent article in the Medical Post April 21 2009, Despite being an important tool in treating pain and despite strict usage guidelines, opiods have long been demonized for their addictive potential. Rather than denying patients relief out of fear, it's time to address gaps in knowledge on their use."

It is a disgrace that so many people are suffering needlessly and that doctors in turn are being intimidated by their governing bodies.