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NAVIGATING TREATMENT GUIDELINES. DRUGS OCTOBER 15, 2011. DRUGS. Medications are included in the Guidelines LSBME has regulations on narcotics – these are not guidelines Abuse is a very big problem in Louisiana. DRUGS BECOME THE PROBLEM. Drug overdose deaths are increasing
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NAVIGATING TREATMENT GUIDELINES DRUGS OCTOBER 15, 2011
DRUGS • Medications are included in the Guidelines • LSBME has regulations on narcotics – these are not guidelines • Abuse is a very big problem in Louisiana
DRUGS BECOME THE PROBLEM • Drug overdose deaths are increasing • All the chronic pain drugs contribute • Even in proper doses, these drugs can kill • Drugs interfere with rehabilitation • Doctors get in trouble as well as patients
DRUG AUTHORIZATION • LWCC has a prior authorization system • We are concerned about cost • We are more concerned about danger
DRUG COSTS • Newer is not the same as better • Time release is rarely needed • Stop drugs that aren’t working • Stop drugs that are causing side-effects • Many drugs are not for long-term use