All information is correct at time of printing and is subject to change without notice. The Devon Formulary and Referral Website is not in any way liable for the accuracy of any information printed and stored by users. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the website.
Formulary
Contact us about this page
Management of pain in substance misuse disorders
A comprehensive assessment of both pain and substance misuse (including alcohol) is essential when managing pain in patients with current or past substance use disorders. Non-pharmacological interventions should also be considered in the development of a pain management plan.
Although caution is necessary, patients who are dependent on opioids or have a history of drug dependence may be treated with opioid analgesics when there is a clinical need. Treatment with opioid analgesics in this patient group should normally be carried out with the advice of specialists.
Liaise with substance misuse/pain specialists as appropriate – ideally prior to prescribing opioids, or non-opioids which may be liable to misuse or diversion e.g. gabapentin and pregabalin. It is recommended opioids in this context are prescribed within a specific framework: single medical prescriber and contract; regular monitoring of use (e.g. warning on practice computer system and to Out of Hours service if necessary) and emphasis on the use of controlled release opioid formulations only if necessary.
See section 4.10.3 Opioid dependence for a list of formulary preparations used in the management of substance misuse disorders.
