Link between Prescription Opioids and Mental Health Issues

A new study from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) has concluded that there is a strong association between non- medically prescribed opioid analgesic consumption, pain symptoms, and mental health issues.

According to the study, the use of non-medically prescribed opioid analgesics has doubled in the U.S. over the past ten years, with 5 % of the general U.S. population admitting to the use of these medications for reasons other than the intended treatment of severe debilitating pain.

Clinical implications of these results indicate that people, who take opioid analgesics for reasons other than their intended prescribed use, are often suffering from undiagnosed mental health problems such as depression or anxiety. There is a strong link, or comorbidity between pain and mental health concerns among those who misuse prescription opioids analgesics. It is therefore suggested that patients who are prescribed opioid analgesics for the treatment of pain, should also receive mental health screening.

The easy availability of opioid analgesics (such as codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone) from both medical and non-medical suppliers has influenced the consumption of these potent analgesics. North America leads the world in the greatest overall use (and increase in use) of prescription opioid analgesics.

According to researchers, a more effective intervention is required in order to address the connection between non-medically prescribed opioid analgesic consumption, acute pain, and underlying mental health issues. This includes adequate access to mental health diagnosis and treatment, as well as effective pain treatment options.

This CAMH study is published in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, and is available online at: http://publications.cpa-apc.org/media.php?mid=1199