The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published Drug Safety Update for March 2025.
This issue advises healthcare professionals that indication for the treatment of post-operative pain has been removed from the licences of all prolonged release opioids due to the increased risk of persistent post-operative opioid use (PPOU) and opioid-induced ventilatory impairment (OIVI). Hospitals are recommended to explain the risks before operative procedures. At discharge, a pain management plan should be shared with the primary care and the patient should be provided with an adequate supply of immediate-release opioids to treat acute post-operative pain to minimise the risk of PPOU, dependence, stock piling of unused opioids and potential for diversion. Primary care clinicians should be vigilant for post-operative opioid use and ensure that pain management plans are reviewed and implemented accordingly including the plan for end of treatment.
Action: Clinicians should be aware of this month's new guidance and implement any necessary changes to practice.