Menu
23/05/2012
Health Watchdog Publish New Pain Medication Guidelines
New guidelines published by health watchdog, NICE, say that many patients with advanced cancer and other debilitating conditions are being "under-treated" for their pain.
The National Institute for Clinical Excellence wants doctors in England and Wales to make more use of morphine and other strong opioids - the only adequate pain relief source for many patients.
Alongside this the guidelines recommend doctors discuss patients' concerns, which may include addiction, tolerance, side-effects and fears that treatment implies the final stage of life.
The guidance deals with five opioids: morphine, diamorphine (heroin), buprenorphine, fentanyl and oxycodone. They come either from the opium poppy or are synthetically produced versions.
NICE have said that "misinterpretations and misunderstanding" have surrounded the use of strong opioids for decades, which has resulted in errors "causing under-dosing and avoidable pain, or overdosing and distressing adverse effects".
Dr Damien Longson, Chair of the NICE Guideline Development Group said: "People worry they can become addicted, particularly if opioids are prescribed over an extended period of time. This guideline puts a strong emphasis on good communication between healthcare professionals and patients, which is key to ensuring any worries or uncertainties are addressed with timely and accurate information."
(H)
The National Institute for Clinical Excellence wants doctors in England and Wales to make more use of morphine and other strong opioids - the only adequate pain relief source for many patients.
Alongside this the guidelines recommend doctors discuss patients' concerns, which may include addiction, tolerance, side-effects and fears that treatment implies the final stage of life.
The guidance deals with five opioids: morphine, diamorphine (heroin), buprenorphine, fentanyl and oxycodone. They come either from the opium poppy or are synthetically produced versions.
NICE have said that "misinterpretations and misunderstanding" have surrounded the use of strong opioids for decades, which has resulted in errors "causing under-dosing and avoidable pain, or overdosing and distressing adverse effects".
Dr Damien Longson, Chair of the NICE Guideline Development Group said: "People worry they can become addicted, particularly if opioids are prescribed over an extended period of time. This guideline puts a strong emphasis on good communication between healthcare professionals and patients, which is key to ensuring any worries or uncertainties are addressed with timely and accurate information."
(H)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
15 January 2013
Historic Breast Cancer Consultation Launched
Women in England and Wales with a strong family history of breast cancer could be offered medication in an effort to prevent the disease. A consultation has been launched by the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence on whether tamoxifen could be given for up to five years.
Historic Breast Cancer Consultation Launched
Women in England and Wales with a strong family history of breast cancer could be offered medication in an effort to prevent the disease. A consultation has been launched by the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence on whether tamoxifen could be given for up to five years.
09 May 2003
Victims to get say in sentencing
Victims of crime and the police will have a say in setting what the Home Secretary describes as "more consistent sentences" for criminals under plans published today.
Victims to get say in sentencing
Victims of crime and the police will have a say in setting what the Home Secretary describes as "more consistent sentences" for criminals under plans published today.
08 August 2005
A&E departments warned on pain relief delays
Some accident and emergency departments are not providing patients with pain relief quickly enough, a report from the healthcare watchdog has warned.
A&E departments warned on pain relief delays
Some accident and emergency departments are not providing patients with pain relief quickly enough, a report from the healthcare watchdog has warned.
20 August 2003
Cannabis tested as surgical painkiller
The Medical Research Council (MRC) is seeking patients scheduled for surgery to take part in a study to find out if oral cannabis plant extract can provide pain relief after an operation. The MRC say that if it is found to be effective and without adverse side effects, it could provide another pain relief option to doctors and patients.
Cannabis tested as surgical painkiller
The Medical Research Council (MRC) is seeking patients scheduled for surgery to take part in a study to find out if oral cannabis plant extract can provide pain relief after an operation. The MRC say that if it is found to be effective and without adverse side effects, it could provide another pain relief option to doctors and patients.
11 July 2014
Guidelines Call For Increase In Ops To Fight Type 2 Diabetes
Draft guidelines have been produced proposing an expansion of weight loss surgery in England, in an effort to tackle the rise of type 2 diabetes. Produced by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the guidelines stated aim is to reduce debilitating complications, which are a huge drain on NHS resources.
Guidelines Call For Increase In Ops To Fight Type 2 Diabetes
Draft guidelines have been produced proposing an expansion of weight loss surgery in England, in an effort to tackle the rise of type 2 diabetes. Produced by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the guidelines stated aim is to reduce debilitating complications, which are a huge drain on NHS resources.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 7 °C.
