Opioids and Opioid Use Disorder: Misuse, Overprescription and Addiction
A special issue of Pharmacy (ISSN 2226-4787). This special issue belongs to the section "Pharmacy Practice and Practice-Based Research".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 48
Special Issue Editor
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The opioid crisis is escalating at an alarming rate, constituting a pressing public health emergency. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, significantly increasing opioid-related harms and fatalities. While illicit opioids are a key driver of this crisis, a troubling surge in opioid prescriptions also warrants attention as a contributing factor. Pain remains one of the most prevalent reasons individuals seek healthcare in North America and beyond, and prescription opioids are often the go-to solution. However, the long-term use of these medications can lead to physical dependence and tolerance, compelling patients to increase their doses in pursuit of relief. This dangerous cycle significantly amplifies the risk of addiction. In many instances, those affected by opioid use disorder (OUD) resort to various methods to obtain prescription opioids, including acquiring prescriptions from multiple doctors without disclosure (a practice known as double doctoring), committing fraud, stealing, tapping into street drug markets, or making online purchases. It is imperative that we confront the opioid crisis head-on, as effective strategies not only stand to improve patient health outcomes but also carry profound economic implications. The escalating costs associated with opioid misuse are unsustainable, and as the crisis deepens, these expenses will likely skyrocket. By investing in comprehensive, alternative approaches to managing opioid use, we can not only protect the health of our communities but also secure significant cost savings for our healthcare system. The time for decisive action is now.
Dr. Chiranjeev Sanyal
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- opioid
- analgesics
- pain
- opioid use disorder
- addiction
- prescription drug monitoring program
- overprescribing
- substance abuse
- healthcare costs
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