Pragmatic Opioid Use in Painful Diabetic Neuropathy

Abstract

The management of painful diabetic neuropathy poses a tough clinical challenge. Although opioid analgesics are considered as second- or third-line agents in the management of moderate-to-severe neuropathic pain, prescription of opioids for this indication is higher than expected. This narrative review is a recommendation on how to ensure pragmatic use of opioids for those with painful diabetic neuropathy while avoiding complications such as opioid overdose, opioid diversion and the development of opioid-use disorder. Risk mitigation strategies at the level of the clinician include periodic assessment and documentation of clinical details, treatment history and psychosocial status. Using a multimodal approach to pain management, medication counselling, adherence monitoring programmes, evidence-based opioid dosing strategies and empowering patients to make treatment decisions are effective strategies in reducing risk associated with prolonged opioid use. At the organisational and policy level, using prescription drug monitoring programmes, carrying out periodic opioid utilisation reviews and providing training to patients and physicians on safe opioid use are useful, implementable strategies.

Keywords: Diabetes; analgesia; neuropathy; opioid abuse; opioid addiction; opioids.