Scott E. Glaser

TL;DR: The role of opioids in the treatment of chronic pain is influenced by the fact that these potent analgesics are associated with a significant number of side effects and complications, and these phenomena are the focus of this review.

TL;DR: A robust agreement which is followed by all parties is essential in initiating and maintaining opioid therapy as such agreements reduce overuse, misuse, abuse, and diversion.

TL;DR: The evidence for the effectiveness of long-term opioids in reducing pain and improving functional status for 6 months or longer is variable and the recommendation is 2A - weak recommendation, high-quality evidence: with benefits closely balanced with risks and burdens.

TL;DR: A broadly based policy committee of recognized experts in the field evaluated the available literature regarding opioid use in managing chronic non-cancer pain this paper, which resulted in the formulation of the review and update of the guidelines published in 2006, a series of potential evidence linkages representing conclusions, followed by statements regarding the relationships between clinical interventions and outcomes.

TL;DR: The focus of these guidelines is to curtail the abuse of opioids without jeopardizing non-cancer pain management with opioids, and to reduce the incidence of abuse and drug diversion.