WorkSafeNB is changing the way it manages opioid prescriptions for those recovering from workplace injuries.
Under the new guidelines, patients will only get a two-week prescription to start and the daily dosage will be reduced.
Dr. Paul Atkinson, the agency’s chief medical officer, told our newsroom it is in response to the growing opioid crisis across North America.
“In 2017, there were over 1,400 deaths from opioid overdoses or misuse in British Columbia,” Atkinson told our newsroom.
Atkinson said New Brunswick recorded 36 opioid-related deaths in 2017 but the number is going up each year.
Harm reduction measures
The agency is also offering harm reduction measures to those already taking large doses of opioids, such as a new drug called suboxone.
“It’s kind of similar to methadone,” Atkinson said. “We’ve all heard of methadone programs that help people get off opioids, but suboxone is a little safer.”
Atkinson said they understand some patients will need opioids but they should not be seen as the go-to treatment because they pose serious risks such as addiction, overdose and death.
“The research is clear that opioids are ineffective for chronic aches and pains and as such should only be used when absolutely necessary,” he said.
Atkinson said the changes align with new guidelines from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick and the Canadian Medical Association.
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Story by Brad Perry
Twitter: @BradMPerry
Email: perry.brad@radioabl.ca
(Photo: WorkSafeNB/submitted)
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