Heroin deaths spike, pharmaceutical opioid deaths creep downwards The 438 deaths caused by heroin in 2018 represent Australia’s highest number in almost 20 years, a new report has found.
Advocates hail ‘game changing’ PBS listing of buprenorphine Harm-reduction advocates have long called for an end to the surprisingly high cost of opioid substitution therapy.
Opioid pack changes ‘long overdue’, but more reform needed From 2020, opioid packages will be smaller and feature improved labels with clearer warnings and consumer information.
Opioid marketing scrutinised by TGA, questioned by RACGP The Therapeutic Goods Administration has confirmed it is examining opioid marketing material aimed at GPs.
Silence and stigma: Living with chronic pain Chronic Pain Australia, a transvaginal mesh survivor and a GP discuss how to best manage the condition in National Pain Week.
With prescription opioids seemingly ubiquitous, why is heroin making a comeback? Overdoses and deaths from heroin are once again becoming common in parts of Australia.
Australia’s Chief Medical Officer responds to GP questions over opioid warning letter Professor Brendan Murphy writes for newsGP on last year’s letter warning GPs about high rates of opioid prescribing.
Antidepressants may reduce efficacy of opioid pain medication: Study New research has found common antidepressants can interact with the pain medication tramadol.
Increased pain management support for GPs and patients The National Strategic Action Plan for Pain Management offers a boost in training for GPs, as well as additional funding support through Medicare.
Hospital to introduce opioid plan to tackle risk of post-surgery dependence A Perth hospital will move to introduce opioid-weaning plans for post-surgery patients in a bid to address rising rates of opioid dependency.