July 2011

Fibromyalgia is one of the most common pain syndromes in the United States, affecting an estimated 10 million people.

Urine drug testing is a commonly accepted component of treating patients with chronic noncancer pain with opioids. But do non-specialists truly understand the tools they are using?

The recently released Institute of Medicine report Relieving Pain in America: A Blueprint for Transforming Prevention, Care, Education, and Research touched on several key issues in pain management in the geriatric population.

Federal report underscores recent data showing surge in the abuse and misuse of prescription opioids, especially among adolescents

Although the fight over whether to implement a prescription drug monitoring program in Florida has captured the most attention in recent months, other states have been making news with their programs, as well.

New drug may provide faster relief during episodes of breakthrough cancer pain compared to usual treatment

News and notes on pain medicine studies and research announcements from around the world.

With concern over the misuse, abuse, and diversion of opioids and other prescription medications for pain at an all-time high, it is imperative that physicians review safe medication handling, storage, and disposal procedures with patients

Although women are prescribed opioid medications for pain more frequently than their male counterparts, that doesn't mean that their pain management needs are being met.

A program developed by the American Pain Foundation and its partners is spreading the message about safe and effective pain management by offering useful resources for patients and physicians.

Fast, good, and cheap: the rule is we only get two in life -- yet in today's health care system, clinicians are pressured to achieve all three. However, the necessary steps for ensuring safe and good pain management are a challenge for physicians who practice in the world of the 15-minute office visit