ASA Opposes Proposed FDA Changes to Opioid Labels

The American Society of Anesthesiologists questioned proposed changes to opioid labels proposed by the Physicians for Responsible Opioid Prescribing at an FDA hearing.

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PROP has petitioned the FDA to consider changes for non-cancer pain, including striking the term “moderate” from the indication, adding a maximum daily dose of 100mg of morphine and adding a maximum duration of 90 days for continuous use.

However, ASA representatives argue these limits on daily doses may restrict physicians from prescribing what they think is necessary to treat pain. In formal communication with the FDA, Daniel Carr, MD, a member of the ASA Committee on Pain Medicine, called the changes “not scientifically founded” or practical.

Dr. Carr also pointed out, among other issues, that it is often difficult to separate cancer versus non-cancer pain since cancer treatments often lead to chronic pain. The recommendations would make anesthesiologists’ difficult work even more difficult, he said.

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