Abuse-Deterrent Formulations
Opioids play an important role in the management of moderate-to-severe pain and the use of opioid medications has steadily increased over the past few decades. With the growing use of opioids, there has been a correlating increase in opioid abuse, diversion, and misuse. To combat opioid abuse, a multifaceted approach is needed that can include the use of abuse-deterrent formulations (ADFs). ADFs can employ various technologies, such as physical/chemical barriers to prevent crushing or extraction, as well as the use of an agonist/antagonist combination that neutralizes the opioid effect if manipulated. Though the use of ADFs can be an important component in ensuring the responsible use of opioids, the incorporation of ADFs into pain management decisions will require a thorough understanding of the available formulations, including the technologies utilized, dosing for optimal effectiveness, and safety considerations.

Opioid-Induced Constipation
Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) is one of the most common and troublesome adverse events associated with opioids, impacting the majority of patients being treated for chronic pain. In addition to the clinical consequences, OIC is also associated with diminished quality of life, compromised pain management, and increased use of healthcare resources. For many, laxatives remain the treatment of choice in preventing and managing OIC, but these agents are associated with significant limitations and risks. More recent advancements have led to the development of a more targeted approach that specifically counteracts the effects of opioids in the gastrointestinal tract. As the role of pharmacists in managing patients with chronic pain grows within the multidisciplinary team, it is imperative that pharmacists improve their competence in the prevention and treatment of OIC. This can include utilizing effective prevention strategies, recognizing the early signs of OIC, and selecting the optimal approach to treat OIC based on patient-specific factors.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This continuing pharmacy education activity is planned to meet the needs of pharmacists in a variety of practice settings, including large and small health systems, outpatient clinics, managed-care organizations, long-term care facilities, community, and academia. This activity would be especially beneficial for pharmacists, clinical specialists, managers, leaders, and educators who are interested in pain management, new drug therapies, and improving the care of patients with chronic pain.

EDUCATIONAL FORMAT

This Online Presentation is based on a live pharmacy series throughout 2019. The activity is divided into 2 episodes and the following topics are covered:

Note: If you have received credit for attending the live program by the same name, you are not eligible to apply for credit for this online version.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completing this activity, participants will be able to:

• Describe current and emerging abuse-deterrent technologies utilized in opioid medications
• Evaluate the role of abuse-deterrent formulations of opioid medications when making pain management decisions
• Discuss the impact of opioid-induced constipation (OIC) on a patient’s quality of life and overall well-being
• Evaluate the use of peripherally-acting mu-opioid receptor antagonists (PAMORAs) in the prevention and management of OIC
  

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FACULTY

	Gregory L. Holmquist, PharmD, CPE Certified Pain Educator Pain Management / Palliative Care Pharmacist Specialist Hospice / Palliative Care Consultant Chronic Non-cancer Pain Consultant LTC Elderly Pain Consultant Private Pain Management Consultant Palliative Care Strategies Everett, WA