Opioids are a class of drugs essential for ensuring a better quality of life for patients suffering from cancer and non-cancer pain.Their illicit use as substances of abuse, therefore outside the medical context, related to the world of organized crime, is quite another matter. A perilous deviation, under the spotlight due to the Fentanyl emergency overseas, which deserves great attention, but which must not confuse the perception of public opinion with respect to the value of a drug that is widely consolidated and appreciated in clinical practice, which represents one irreplaceable tool in the fight against pain. This is the unanimous message expressed by representatives of the world of politics, institutions and the scientific community, who spoke today in Rome at the conference ‘Fentanyl, between safety and health: beyond the emergency’, organized by Formiche in collaboration with the Gentili Institute.
“Fentanyl is a molecule with over sixty years of clinical experience. it is the most used opioid in the world in the anesthetic field and represents an irreplaceable aid for treating moderate-severe pain,especially in oncology – explained Arturo Cuomo,director SC Anesthesia,Resuscitation and Pain Therapy,National cancer institute – Irccs Fondazione Pascale,Naples – In addition to the benefits on quality of life,pain therapy represents in all respects an adjuvant therapy for cancer treatment,because it helps to improve adherence to oncological therapies and therefore increase survival. It is truly an indispensable weapon in the hands of the doctor to guarantee the best care for the patients for whom this drug is intended essential”.
“There is absolute awareness of the usefulness of opioid drugs for pain therapy.The Fentanyl Plan does not intend in any way to demonize this irreplaceable drug in medicine, nor to influence the legal supply chain – declared Ugo Taucer, prefect and advisor to the undersecretary of State with delegation to the Department of Anti-drug Policies of the Presidency of the Council – The Government’s action is aimed at preventing the spread of Fentanyl through illicit channels to protect the health of the population from distorted consumption of the substance. There is a desire to strengthen the synergy between all the subjects involved in the monitoring and management of the supply chain,which goes hand in hand with the control of illegal transfers of these substances at an international level”.
“it is necessary to distinguish between the use of opioid drugs in the healthcare sector, which is fundamental for improving the quality of life of cancer patients and beyond, and the illicit use of these substances in the context of drug addiction – stated Luciano Ciocchetti, vice-president of the XII Social Affairs Commission of the Chamber – It is important to implement effective actions to prevent forms of opioid abuse and at the same time promote the culture of fighting pain, enshrined in law 38/2010”. marta Schifone, member of the commission, highlighted that “Italy was among the first nations to have implemented a counteraction against the illicit use of Fentanyl, which is also based on the critically important role of cooperation between states to combat the illegal trade of these substances”.
“It is indeed essential to promote greater knowledge on these issues – said Elena Murelli, member of the related to the illicit use of these substances and the need to combat the illegal market on the dark web which is accessed especially by young people”.
Francesco Saverio Mennini, head of the Department of programming, medical devices, drugs and policies in favor of the NHS of the Ministry of Health, remarked that “pain therapy must be seen from 3 fundamental aspects: the impact on quality improvement of patients’ lives and on the reduction of economic and social costs borne by families and the social security system; access to therapies, which must be guaranteed to all patients who can benefit from these drugs, and finally the fight against illegality The introduction totalizing the dematerialized prescription will also allow us to trace the path of the drugs used to treat pain and to intervene in case of anomalies, to protect patients and to avoid inappropriate use of these therapies”.
How can public education reduce the stigma associated with opioid prescriptions?
Interview: Navigating the Complexities of Opioid Use
Editor (Time.news): Welcome to our discussion today, where we’ll be exploring the crucial yet complex topic of opioid use in medical practice and the emerging concerns surrounding illicit use, particularly in light of the Fentanyl crisis. We’re joined by Dr. Emily Ramirez, a leading pain management specialist with extensive experience in treating patients with both cancer and non-cancer pain. Dr. Ramirez, thank you for being here.
Dr. Ramirez: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an crucial topic.
Editor: At a recent conference in Rome focused on the opioid crisis and Fentanyl,a strong consensus emerged around the value of opioids in clinical settings. Can you elaborate on why opioids are considered essential for patients?
Dr. Ramirez: Absolutely. Opioids play a vital role in managing severe pain, especially for patients dealing with cancer or chronic conditions. For many of these individuals, opioids are the most effective way to provide relief and improve their quality of life. they are irreplaceable in many cases, enabling patients to participate in daily activities, engage with family, and maintain a sense of normalcy amidst their health struggles.
Editor: That’s a critical point. However, the conversation around opioids has been overshadowed by their illicit use and the associated dangers, especially with substances like Fentanyl. What impact do you think this has on public perception?
Dr.Ramirez: The negative perception has indeed intensified, and understandably so given the tragic consequences associated with Fentanyl misuse.Though, it’s vital to distinguish between medical use and illicit use. the fears surrounding these drugs can create barriers for genuine patients who rely on them. It’s a classic case of the need for public education; many do not understand that when prescribed and used appropriately, opioids can be safe and effective.
Editor: That makes sense. The conference also highlighted the need for dialog between political entities, health institutions, and the scientific community. What role do you think this collaboration plays in addressing the crisis?
Dr. ramirez: Collaboration is essential. It ensures that policies reflect the realities of medical use while addressing the public health crisis effectively. Politicians and health officials must work together to create frameworks that allow for safe prescribing practices, education for both healthcare providers and patients, and prevention strategies for misuse. It’s a balancing act, but it’s crucial for protecting vulnerable patients.
Editor: You mentioned education; what kinds of strategies could be employed to better inform the public about the benefits and risks of opioids?
Dr. Ramirez: Public education campaigns that highlight factual information about pain management, the proper use of opioids, and the risks of abuse are vital. Integrating discussions around opioids into school curricula, working with community health organizations, and increasing the visibility of success stories from patients who have benefited from opioids can shift the narrative away from fear and mistrust.
Editor: It sounds like a multi-faceted approach is necessary. As an expert, what gives you hope in navigating the opioid crisis effectively?
Dr. Ramirez: I see hope in the increasing awareness and willingness to address the issue holistically. There is a growing understanding that we need to support both patients in pain and communities affected by addiction. Moreover,advancements in pain management alternatives and ongoing research into safer opioid formulations are promising.I believe that with the right resources and collaboration,we can create solutions that benefit everyone.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Ramirez, for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that while the challenges are significant, a nuanced understanding and collaborative efforts can pave the way for better outcomes in pain management and public health.
Dr. Ramirez: Thank you for having me. It’s conversations like this that are so important in driving change and improving patient care.