Two-Thirds of Prescribed ER Opioids Go Unused, Adding to Risk of Misuse: Study

Many patients with acute pain discharged from emergency departments with opioid prescriptions end up not using them, potentially contributing to later misuse and opioid overdose, according to a recent study. The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal on July 15, found that participants consumed a median of only five tablets out of a total prescription of 16 tablets, with most stopping opioid use within 2 weeks. That left nearly two-thirds of the opioids unused and potentially available for misuse. The study aimed to determine the optimal quantity of opioids to prescribe to patients with acute pain at emergency department discharge, in order to manage pain while minimizing the amount left unused....