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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
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Non-Fiction
βA World of Hurtβ explores the untold part of the prescription painkiller story β 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 βWar on Painβ that promoted the widespread use of powerful narcotic painkillers for common conditions such as back pain, headaches and fibromyalgia. Specialists claimed that a βbright lineβ separated the drugsβ benefits for patients from their dangers when abused on the street by young people and others. Today, Meier writes, experts β including some who once promoted the drugs β believe that the opioid boom βranks among medicineβs 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, βA World of Hurtβ highlights how treating pain differently can benefit both pain patients and the public's health. βThe promise that high-powered drugs could provide a cure-all β the key to winning the βWar on Painβ β was an empty one,β Meier writes.
 Media BuzzFresh Air - NPR - May 29, 2013
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