Journal of opioid management
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Observational Study
Assessment of outcomes following high-dose opioid tapering in a Veterans Healthcare System.
To assess the impact of tapering of chronic high dose opioid therapy in veterans prompted by the implementation of the Opioid Safety Initiative in 2013. ⋯ This study suggests that moderate speed tapering in high-risk veterans on chronic high-dose opioid therapy can be achieved, but caution is warranted in ensuring adequate follow-up and monitoring. Clinical pharmacy services may improve tapering outcomes by providing more frequent follow-up, monitoring via state PDMP queries to identify patients who have relapsed, and dispensing naloxone for increased safety.