[Potential pharmacological consequences of the development of the opioid consumption in Denmark]

Abstract

The total consumption of weak opioids (mainly of tramadol) in Denmark was doubled during the period 2001-2013. On the contrary, the total consumption of strong opioids remained almost constant in the same period. The increase in tramadol consumption is not rational, as it has no special benefits with regards to efficacy, side effects and abuse potential. The terms strong- and weak opioids are inappropriate, because it often erroneously is interpreted as if the weak opioids are safer, but it is really just a matter of potency: strong opioids are simply more potent.