Is There a Role for Opioids in the Management of Chronic Non-Cancer Pain in Older People?

The role of opioids for the management of chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) in later life remains controversial. This controversy is perhaps most pronounced in countries significantly impacted by the ongoing opioid crisis. One in four older adults experience CNCP. Yet, according to the World Health Organization, by 2015, worldwide 75% of drug-related deaths in those over age 65 were due to opioids.

This seminar brought together four experts from around the globe who provided an international perspective regarding the use of opioids when managing CNCP in older populations. Using a case-based approach, presenters covered key topics, including alternatives to the use of opioids in the treatment of moderate-to-severe pain, how to factor in polypharmacy and multimorbidity when deciding whether to prescribe a trial of an opioid, the importance of shared-decision making and defining mutually agreed upon treatment goals, and considerations regarding substance use and substance use disorders.

Participants include:
Graziano Onder, MD, PhD
Debra Weiner, MD
Malcolm Hogg, MBBS
Launette Marie Rieb, MD
Benny Katz, MBBS