Archives for April 2018

Opioid Lawsuits Threaten Lives of Pain Sufferers

Implications for People With Chronic Pain

Several lawsuits have been filed against several opioid manufacturers, distributors, and physicians for participating in what was allegedly a scheme to cause incalculable harm for profit. I am one of the physicians named as an alleged “conspirator.”

The opioid lawsuits are far more than legal matters that involve the defendants. They also have serious implications for people in pain.

The opioid crisis and resulting lawsuits have significantly impacted regulatory scrutiny of prescribing, which in turn has had a chilling effect on physicians who are increasingly unwilling to treat people in pain for fear of losing their license. Unfortunately, the lawsuits and the hyperbolic charges they contain fail to recognize the scientific, medical realities of chronic pain patients.

Utah Opioid Crisis Summit

University of Utah’s Summit Addressed State’s Opioid Problem

On April 23, 2018, the University of Utah’s summit convened to discuss how to solve the state’s opioid problem.

The summit’s goal was to identify barriers faced by health care providers and others in providing effective treatment of pain and addiction. The participants’ diverse professional backgrounds provided an opportunity for a productive conversation.

Participants included physicians, pain specialists, addiction recovery therapists, child welfare advocates, pharmacists, defense attorneys, prosecutors, drug court representatives, poison control specialists, data specialists, public health officials, specialists in harm reduction, and many others who are involved in the opioid crisis.

Repeating the Mistakes of the Past

I’m pleased to present a blog written by Megan Nalamachu who is a bright, articulate high school student.

Her father, Dr. Srinivas Nalamachu, is a treasured colleague and friend. He proudly sent me his daughter’s well-researched work, because he believed I’d be interested in it. He was correct. Megan did a wonderful job rendering a powerful piece that, in my opinion, is well worth sharing.

My usual disclaimer applies. Megan’s article reflects her own views. They are not necessarily my own, nor do they represent medical advice.

Megan Nalamachu, it’s a privilege for me to publish your work. Thank you for your contribution.

Prescription Drug Advertisements

Selling Prescription Drugs via Direct-to-Consumer Advertising

“Next year, how about fewer ads that fuel opioid addiction and more on access to treatment,” White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough complained on Twitter.

“Was that really an ad for junkies who can’t [poop]? America, I luv ya but I just can’t keep up,” TV host Bill Maher tweeted.

These are only two insensitive comments that were made by high-profile individuals in response to AstraZenca’s 2016 Super Bowl ad, “Envy.”