HHS guide for appropriate tapering or discontinuation of long-term opioid use
New guidance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provides clarification and advice for physicians on appropriate tapering methods for patients with long-term opioid use.
The Guide for Clinicians on the Appropriate Dosage Reduction or Discontinuation of Long-Term Opioid Analgesics (pdf) emphasizes the dangers of opioid withdrawal when rapidly changing a patient’s dose, as well as the need for personalized care tailored to the patient’s circumstances. It includes important issues to consider within all stages of the process, information on treating symptoms of withdrawal, and resources for behavioral health support.