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Pain Medication Dependence Linked to Pain Intensity, Depression

8 in 10 Chronic Pain Patients Treated with Prescription Pain Meds Experience Dependence

Nearly 1 in every 10 chronic pain patients treated with prescription painkillers develop dependence on these medications, a new study finds.

Pain Frequency and Intensity

The study, published in the journal Pain, found that painkiller dependence was positively correlated with pain frequency and intensity. This means that patients who experienced more frequent and severe pain were more likely to become dependent on painkillers.

Depression

The study also found that painkiller dependence was associated with depression. This suggests that depression may be a risk factor for developing painkiller dependence.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

The most widely studied and effective interventions for chronic pain include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other psychological therapies. These therapies can help patients learn to manage their pain without relying on medication.

Conclusion

The findings of this study highlight the importance of careful monitoring of patients who are prescribed painkillers for chronic pain. Patients who experience dependence on these medications should be offered alternative treatment options, such as CBT.