look news india
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued new guidelines regarding the use of opioid drugs to treat pain in children. This guideline advises pediatricians to prescribe opioid medications with caution as needed, to minimize long-term risks.
This guideline is the first clinical practice guideline on opioid use in children to provide clear instructions on when and how to use these medications. Published in the journal Pediatrics Online, this guideline states that pediatricians should always use non-opioid medications for patients with mild to moderate pain.
Prescription of opioids and naloxone
The guidelines also recommend that the overdose treatment drug naloxone should be given along with opioid medications. Scott Hadland, lead author of the guideline, said that there has been a major change in medical practice in the last two decades. Earlier, higher doses of opioids were prescribed, but now this has decreased. Due to this, many children are not getting proper treatment for pain.
Prescribe opioids only when necessary
Hadland said pediatricians should prescribe opioids only when they are really needed. He said pain and stress can have a negative impact on mental health, so doctors should take steps to reduce the risk of drug addiction.
Other treatments for pain
According to the AAP's medical practice guidelines, opioid medications should be used in conjunction with other non-pharmacological measures, such as physical therapy. In addition, non-opioid medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen should also be used.
Ban on codeine and tramadol
The guidelines also impose several restrictions on opioids such as codeine and tramadol. These medications are prescribed for use by adults only. Its purpose is to provide protection against inappropriate use and potential side effects of opioid medications in children.