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Fixing Pain Medicine's Biggest Mistake
The New York Times Company
June 2013
On Sale: May 21, 2013
ISBN: 1625392486 EAN: 9781625392480 Kindle: B00CXWRNNK e-Book
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Non-Fiction
“A World of Hurt” explores the untold part of the
prescription painkiller story – growing evidence that these
drugs, along with causing an epidemic of abuse, are often
ineffective in treating long-term pain and are harming patients. Written by Barry Meier, an award-winning reporter for the
Times, this new e-book also examines an unfolding medical
revolution that will change the thinking of patients and
their families. A decade ago, drug companies and medical
experts launched a “War on Pain” that promoted the
widespread use of powerful narcotic painkillers for common
conditions such as back pain, headaches and fibromyalgia.
Specialists claimed that a “bright line” separated the
drugs’ benefits for patients from their dangers when abused
on the street by young people and others. Today, Meier writes, experts – including some who once
promoted the drugs – believe that the opioid boom “ranks
among medicine’s biggest mistakes". Recent studies have tied
long-term use of these drugs, particularly at high doses, to
addiction, dependence, reduced sexual drive, lethargy and
other problems. Based on stories of researchers, patients
and others, “A World of Hurt” highlights how treating pain
differently can benefit both pain patients and the public's
health. “The promise that high-powered drugs could provide a
cure-all – the key to winning the ‘War on Pain’ – was an
empty one,” Meier writes.
No awards found for this book.
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