Suicide Risk in the Treatment of Chronic Pain with Opioids

Authors

James A. Nicholson, Univeristy of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Pain Medicine

Advisor

Dr. Elyse Watkins, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA

Abstract

ABSTRACT:

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review chronic pain patients being treated with opioids and analyze the associated risks of suicide.

Method: A PubMed literature and Google Scholar search were conducted with the following search terms: chronic pain, opioids, and suicide. Eleven pertinent articles were retrieved, and they serve as the basis for this clinical review.

Results: Evidence shows that chronic pain treated with opioids may increase the risk of suicide.

Conclusion: Studies have shown that chronic pain is a risk factor for suicide. Opioids could potentially be a risk for suicide, as well as a means of suicide. Prior research has shown that more than 90% of those who die by suicide had a diagnosable mental disorder at the time of death. Individuals with a history of depression and PTSD are more likely to have chronic pain and to receive prescription opioids; usually in higher doses and for longer periods of time. Further research is needed to establish a direct correlation between chronic pain, opioids, and suicide.

Recommended Citation

Nicholson JA. Suicide Risk in the Treatment of Chronic Pain with Opioids. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2020; 2(2).