Increases in opioid prescribing have been accompanied by simultaneous increases in abuse, serious injuries, and deaths from overdose. Compared to those on no, or lower opiate doses, those prescribed higher opiate doses have increased disability risk and duration. The use of opiates can result in effects such as euphoria, drowsiness or inability to concentrate. Cognitive and psychomotor ability are essential functions for driving a motor vehicle and other complex work tasks. Those who prescribe opiates may be obligated to report a patient’s inability to drive safely.
Sources:
Canadian Medical Association. Determining Medical Fitness to Operate Motor Vehicles 8th Edition. Ottawa (ON): Canadian Medical Association; 2012.
Franklin GM, et al. Early opioid prescription and subsequent disability among workers with back injuries: the Disability Risk Identification Study Cohort. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2008 Jan 15;33(2):199-204. PMID: 18197107.
Kuehn BM. Opioid prescriptions soar: increase in legitimate use as well as abuse. JAMA. Jan 17 2007;297(3):249-251. PMID: 17227967.
National Opioid Use Guideline Group (NOUGG). Canadian Guideline for Safe and Effective Use of Opioids for Chronic Non-Cancer Pain [Internet]. 2010 [cited 2014 Sep 23].
Webster BS, et al. Relationship between early opioid prescribing for acute occupational low back pain and disability duration, medical costs, subsequent surgery and late opioid use. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). Sep 1 2007;32(19):2127-2132. PMID: 17762815.
Weiss MS, et al. Opioids Guideline [Internet]. In: Hegmann K, ed. ACOEM’s Occupational Medicine Practice Guidelines. 3rd ed revised. Westminster (CO): Reed Group Ltd; 2014.
Related Resources:
Campaign: Opioid Wisely