Problem: One of the most challenging aspects of public health related to prescription drugs is the inappropriate use of opioid medications. Opioids are class of medications indented for short-term pain relief or palliative care; and opioids such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl are widely overprescribed for chronic pain (Cuomo et al, 2020). From 1999 to 2019, the cases of opioid overuse from both prescription and illicit use have been increased in United States (CDC, 2020). This overprescription, combined with the addictive nature of opioids, has led to widespread misuse and dependence. Need Assignment Help?
Reply to Hemangi's comment below on the class forum
Patients may begin using opioids as prescribed but gradually develop a tolerance to the medication, eventually requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. Inappropriate overuse of opioids was the cause of death for nearly 500,000 people in United States between 1999 to 2019 (CDC, 2020). The ease of access, both through legal prescriptions and illegal sources, has fueled a national crisis.
Cross collaboration among the clinicians, health promotion professionals, researchers, policymakers could help to lead the multidisciplinary actions to prevent the opioid overuse, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2019). Public Awareness Campaigns to educate the general public about the risks of opioid use, the importance of proper storage/disposal, and the availability of non-opioid alternatives is crucial.