Journal of primary care & community health
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J Prim Care Community Health · Jan 2019
Randomized Controlled TrialPatient Engagement Survey Regarding Future Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial of Tapering of Chronic Opioid Therapy.
Objective: There is a lack of evidence regarding tapering opioid medications in patients with chronic non-cancer pain. The purpose of this survey was to gather perspectives on future research into opioid tapering from utilizers of chronic opioid therapy (COT) or other people affected by chronic noncancer pain. Methods: The survey was distributed in paper form to patients on COT and via an online platform to patients self-enrolled in the chronic pain patient engagement group. ⋯ This was accompanied by responses with the assumption that pain will worsen as opioid medications are decreased. Conclusion: Patient concerns regarding opioid medications and discontinuation reflect the lack of evidence available to prescribers. There appears to be patient support for future research into the effects of tapering opioid medications.