The pharmacists' contribution against opioid addiction

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate pharmacists' willingness to consider suggesting a non-narcotic NSAID medication instead of an opioid for patients requiring pain relief. Specifically, the study aimed to extend the vital role of the pharmacist in helping to alleviate the opioid crisis. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted by a University Continuing Pharmacy Education Office (response rate = 66%). Key findings: Although 84.1% of respondents were willing to suggest NSAID replacement to patients, they appeared to be a bit less optimistic to patient's response, and only 13.5% of them felt that more than half of their patients would go along with the NSAID suggestion. There was no statistically significant difference in the responses of female and male pharmacists. The relatively older pharmacists tended to be more likely to consult their patients about this issue compared with younger pharmacists. This may be due to greater confidence that accompanies greater experience or the fact that they had longer relationships with their patients. Conclusions: While opioid addiction occurs from numerous sources, the partial elimination of opioid prescriptions by pharmacists could possibly reduce in some modest way the total number of persons exposed to opioids.