Organised crime targeting GPs for potent fentanyl patches NSW Health has issued a warning for doctors to be on high alert amid reports of patients seeking opioids as part of organised criminal activity.
Should GPs routinely prescribe naloxone to people who use opioids? Experts believe this measure may be life-saving, likening it to using an Epipen for anaphylaxis or intramuscular glucagon.
Opioids: Tolerance, dependence and overdose Dr Jill Thistlethwaite talks with Dr Hester Wilson, a GP and addiction medicine specialist, and Ms Leah Dwyer, a member of Painaustralia’s Consumer Advisory Group.
Trial helps reduce ED opioid interventions for back pain While the research was based in emergency departments, its findings also provide insights into pain management in general practice.
What the TGA’s recent opioid changes mean for GPs Adjunct Professor John Skerritt of the Therapeutic Goods Administration outlines why the regulator is making changes to opioid indications and pack sizes.
Wastewater reveals record high drug consumption New Australian data shows a spike in overall drug use at the height of the pandemic, but opioid use is down.
Changes made to recent opioid reforms Annual secondary review requirements have been relaxed, easing access concerns for palliative care patients.
Can pain self-management avoid the need for opioids? A new education package is aimed at giving GPs the ability to treat chronic pain without opioids.
Overdose toll still worse than the road toll: report More than 2000 Australians died from drug overdoses in 2018, according to a report released on International Overdose Awareness Day.
Pharmacists to add warning labels to opioids The labels will advise patients of the risk of overdose and dependence associated with the potentially dangerous medications.